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6 Best Fonts for a Cover Letter (And How to Choose One)

When it comes to job search, every small detail can play for or against you. Spelling, layout, stylistic highlights, fonts — the tiny design tweaks can amplify or muddle the first impression you are to make. 

All of the above is true for cover letters too. The easiest way to make the wrong first impression is by using a terrible cover letter font. OK, but which ones are good ones and which ones are bad? 

I’ve talked to our graphic design team (the one behind all our resume templates !) to get their scoop on the best fonts for cover letters. 

What is the Best Font for a Cover Letter?

The best font for a cover letter is Times New Roman . It’s a classic serif typeface that’s been in use for over 85 years. Times New Roman uses space economically which makes it easier to fit your cover letter into one page. This font looks equally great in print and in digital documents, plus it is supported by all major word processors and email apps. So your cover letter will be 100% readable! 

What is the Best Font Size for a Cover Letter?

The best font size for a cover letter is 12 points . This is a standard font size for most business documents — not too big, not too small for different screen sizes. You can also opt for 10 or 11 points cover letter font size if you need to fit more information into one page, but this can affect the readability of your letter. 

Best Fonts for a Professional Cover Letter: Overview

Times New Roman is a clear leader, recommended for use by career advisors from MIT , Purdue University , and Boston University among others for both resumes and cover letters. 

But because Times New Roman is a serif font, it might be hard to read for people with dyslexia or other types of reading disorders . So if you want to be extra mindful, you can look for another professional cover letter font. 

Just make sure it is: 

• Serif or sans serif (avoid calligraphic typefaces) 
• Readable (i.e. don’t have too many fancy elements) 
• Widely supported by word processing apps 
• Not Comic Sans (which is universally deemed unprofessional) 

To help you narrow down your choice, here are several more best fonts for a professional cover letter we recommend using. 

1. Arial 

Arial font has been around since the 1980s. You are probably well-familiar with it if you are a Windows user. Arial has been the default font for this operating system since the 1990s. It’s a web-friendly sans serif typeface. However, many graphic designers suggest avoiding Arial in print as it ends up looking somewhat plain, especially in bigger sizes. 

But since most of us dispatch email cover letters these days, it shouldn’t be much of a concern. 

2. Helvetica 

Helvetica is a Swiss-born typeface as its name indicates (Helvetia is the Latin word for Switzerland). Originally created by a freelance designer for a Haus foundry, it became hugely popular thanks to Apple. While Microsoft chose Arial as the main font for its OS, Apple picked Helvetica for the same purpose. 

Helvetica is also a sans serif font and it’s very readable. That’s because it has even kerning in any variation — bold, italic, or skinny — which gives the reader a sense of clean spacing. 

3. Calibri 

Calibri is a digital-native sans serif post. It was created specifically for online documents in the early 2000s — and presented to the general public with Microsoft Office 2007 and Windows Vista releases. Up till today, it remains the default font in MS Office. 

It has a pleasant rounded feel to it, paired with a tight layout. Thanks to it, you can flexibly change text size without losing resolution. So if you need to fit a longer cover letter into one page , try using Calibri in size 11. 

4. Georgia 

Don’t let this name trick you — the Georgia typeface was designed in the US in the 1990s for Microsoft corporation (again). But it was introduced only in 2006 as one of the standard fonts.

Georgia was originally envisioned as an alternative serif font to Times New Roman, which would look better on smaller screen sizes. Times New Roman becomes hard to read in small sizes. 

Overall, Georgia is a great cover letter font option for those who want to add some extra “personality” to your cover letter, while still maintaining professionalism. 

5. Garamond

Garamond is another fine example of a time-tested font. It was modeled after an old-styled Latin typeface, used by a 16th-century engraver Claude Garamond. But don’t let its age deter you, Garamond looks fresher compared to other popular serif fonts like Times New Roman and Georgia.  So if you want to give your cover letter a subtle creative flair, go for this option. 

Verdana typeface family is another ‘brainchild’ of Microsoft Corporation, released in the late 1990s.  It was modeled after humanist sans serif fonts such as the ones still used by the London Underground.

Yet Verdana has a more modern feel to it and touts generous width and spacing between letters. It also has a prominent distinction between frequently confused letters just as  lowercase i j l, the uppercase I J L, and the number 1.

Making Cover Letter Font Selection Easier 

If you feel that typography isn’t your forte, go with a “safe” choice of Times New Roman. Yes, it’s somewhat overused, but this fact doesn’t make it less professional. Alternatively, opt for popular sans serif fonts such as Ariel, Helvetica, or Verdana. There you go — you now have no more excuses for not working on your cover letter !

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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A Guide To The Best Fonts For a Cover Letter (With Examples)

Written by Mark DeGrasso

May 3, 2023.

When it comes to your job search, every detail counts, including the font you choose for your cover letter. While you may think that the content of your letter is the most important thing, the font you use can make a significant impact on the reader’s perception of you. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the best font for your cover letter, giving you the edge you need to stand out from the crowd.

Tips On Choosing the Perfect Font For Your Cover Letter

Choosing the right font for your cover letter is an important step in creating a professional and polished impression on potential employers. While it may seem overwhelming to choose from the vast array of options available, there are some key considerations to keep in mind that can help make the decision easier.

First and foremost, it is important to stick to professional fonts that are widely recognized and easy to read. Arial, Helvetica, and Times New Roman are all excellent choices that are commonly used in business settings. These fonts are straightforward and legible, making them a safe bet for any cover letter.

Another important factor to consider is the legibility of your chosen font in small sizes. While you may be tempted to choose a more decorative or unique font to stand out, it is important to remember that your cover letter may be viewed on a variety of devices and printouts. Choosing a font that is easily readable in small sizes can help ensure that your letter is accessible to all potential employers.

It is also important to avoid fonts that may be difficult to read or give off an unprofessional impression. Decorative or cursive fonts, while visually interesting, can be challenging to decipher and may not be appropriate for a professional cover letter.

When considering your font choice, it can also be helpful to think about the company you are applying to and their brand. Do they have a particular font that they use in their materials? If so, using that font in your cover letter can help demonstrate that you are a good fit for the company and its values.

Finally, it is always a good idea to test your font choice by printing a copy of your letter and reviewing it for legibility and readability. This can help ensure that your cover letter is polished and professional, and that you are presenting yourself in the best possible light to potential employers.

The Top Ten Fonts For Your Cover Letter and Why

When it comes to creating a cover letter, choosing the right font can make all the difference. While there are countless fonts to choose from, some are more conducive to a professional cover letter than others. Here are the top ten fonts to consider:

• Arial   – This clean, sans-serif font is a standard in the business world. It is easy to read, widely recognized, and can be used in various sizes. Arial is a safe choice that can work well for any industry.
• Helvetica   – Similar to Arial, this versatile font has a classic look and is easy to read in small and large sizes. It is a popular choice in the design industry and can work well for creative roles.
• Times New Roman   – This serif font is an excellent choice for a traditional industry, such as law or academia. It is easy to read and adds a touch of professionalism. Times New Roman has been a popular choice for many years and is a safe bet for any conservative industry.
• Calibri   – Another sans-serif font that is easy to read, Calibri has been widely used since its debut in Microsoft Office in 2007. It has a modern look and is a good choice for industries that value innovation and creativity.
• Garamond   – This serif font has been around for centuries and is known for its timeless elegance. It is an excellent choice for creative fields or those where a classic touch is desired. Garamond is a great choice for industries such as art, fashion, or luxury goods.
• Georgia   – Similar to Garamond, Georgia is a classic serif font that is easy to read and has a timeless feel. It is particularly suited to fields such as journalism or publishing, where a traditional look is valued.
• Verdana   – This simple sans-serif font is an excellent choice for electronic communication as it is easy to read on-screen. It has a modern look and is a good choice for industries that value simplicity and ease of use.
• Baskerville   – This elegant serif font is another excellent choice for traditional industries. It is classy and easy to read in small sizes. Baskerville is a great choice for industries such as finance , law, or government.
• Trebuchet MS   – A sans-serif font that is easy on the eyes, Trebuchet MS is a good choice for a sleek look. It has a modern feel and can work well for industries such as marketing or advertising.
• Century Gothic   – This elegant sans-serif font is an excellent choice for those looking for a modern, sophisticated look. It has a unique look that can make your cover letter stand out. Century Gothic is a great choice for industries such as technology or design.

Remember, the font you choose for your cover letter should reflect your personality and the industry you are applying to. While these top ten fonts are a great starting point, be sure to choose a font that is easy to read and professional.

Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that the font is just one aspect of your cover letter. The content and formatting are equally important in making a strong impression on potential employers. Be sure to proofread your cover letter carefully and tailor it to the specific job you are applying for.

Using the Right Font Can Make or Break Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression with a potential employer. It’s important to remember that the font you choose can have a big impact on how your letter is perceived. While the content of your letter is essential, the font you use can make a difference in how you are perceived.

When it comes to choosing a font for your cover letter, it’s important to consider the industry and company culture. For example, if you’re applying for a job in a creative field, you may want to consider using a more playful or unique font. However, if you’re applying for a job in a more traditional industry, such as finance or law, you may want to stick with a more classic and professional font.

Another thing to consider when choosing a font for your cover letter is readability. You want to make sure that your letter is easy to read and that the font you choose is not too small or too difficult to read. A font that is difficult to read or unprofessional can make a negative impression on the reader.

One popular font choice for cover letters is Times New Roman. This font is classic and professional, making it a great choice for traditional industries. Other popular font choices include Arial, Calibri, and Helvetica.

Ultimately, the font you choose for your cover letter should be based on what is appropriate for your field, the company culture, and the application process. Take the time to choose the best font for your cover letter, and you will increase your chances of making a great first impression.

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How to Choose the Best Font and Font Size for Cover Letters

Keep it Professional

Choose one simple font, pick an appropriate font size, how to make your font selection, include plenty of white space, sending email cover letters.

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When you are writing a cover letter , it's important to use a font—or type style—that is clear and easy to read. Consider that hiring managers have to review dozens, if not hundreds, of applicants for a position. They may immediately pass over a cover letter and resume that isn’t instantly legible.

Be sure to make your font large enough so that the reader doesn't have to squint to read your letter, but not so large that your letter doesn't fit well on the page.

When it comes to choosing a font to use in your cover letter, your best bet is to keep it simple and professional. You want your words and message to stand out, not your font choice.

Avoid using unprofessional novelty-style fonts such as Comic Sans, handwriting, or script-style fonts.

Ideally, the font used in the cover letter will be both the same size and style as the one used in your resume, to help you present a cohesive package.

Review these tips for determining the right font for your cover letter, as well as what size it should be, and which styles are and are not appropriate to use in a cover letter.

Using a simple font will ensure that your cover letter is easy to read. Basic fonts like Arial, Courier New, Calibri, Verdana, and Times New Roman work the best. Most word processing and email programs will default to a professional and easily readable choice.

Limit yourself to one font in your cover letter; it's best not to mix several fonts in one document.

There is no need to use different styles in a cover letter. Avoid underlining or italicizing, and use boldface text only when emphasizing quantifiable achievements that need to “pop” on the page.

Depending on how much content you have in your letter, select a 10- or 12-point font size.

It's best if you can format your cover letter so it fits on one page, with margins that are no larger than 1” and no smaller than .7”.

If your letter includes a heading with your name and contacts information, you may choose to make this font slightly larger.

When you are using Microsoft Word, you can select a template for your letter or start from scratch with a new document. If you're using a different word processing program, the process is similar.

• Select a font from the list at the top of your document before you start writing your letter, or:
• Type your cover letter.
• Highlight the content of your letter.
• Either select the font from the pop-up window or select the font from the list at the top of the document.
• Select the font size you want to use the same way.
• Proofread your cover letter.
• Print your cover letter, even if you are going to upload it online, to make sure that it is formatted, properly spaced, and looks the way you want it to.

Regardless of the font size, you select, there needs to be space at the top of the letter and between each paragraph and each  section of your cover letter . Here's how to  space your cover letter .

You may need to try a couple of different sizes to make sure that your cover letter fits on a single page, and you have enough white space in between paragraphs. Review these formatting tips to be sure your letter will make the best impression.

The information above applies primarily to instances where you are sending a traditional cover letter by snail mail or when you are sending a formal cover letter as a Word or PDF attachment to an email message .

Copying and pasting a cover letter into the body of an email message may change the formatting, making it difficult to read for an employer who may have a different computer system.

The safest thing to do when you are copying and pasting your cover letter into an email is to remove the formatting and reformat it as plain text. Send a copy to yourself before you send it to an employer to double-check that it reads correctly.

Best Fonts to Use On Your Cover Letter

eye-pleasing fonts

Get to writing.

Recruiters and human resource specialists look for reasons to keep or throw away cover letters from the second they see them. Your writing style and content of your letter may be the most important factors of whether you make it to the next round or not, but do not overlook the importance of appearance.

You can have the best-crafted cover letter that truly sets you apart from your peers, but if you write it in Comic Sans, someone will likely toss it in the trash before being read. In this article, you’ll learn about some of the best fonts for cover letters.

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There is no single best font for your cover letter, but you cannot go wrong with the options listed below. Whether you are looking for something classic, safe, or professional while still being fun, you will find something that works for you.

Arial is a sans serif font, meaning without strokes at the ends of letters, and is always a safe choice. This classic font is clean and easy to read, making it the standard choice for most business uses — including cover letters. Arial is also a standard sans serif choice for many commonly used applications such as Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

Times new roman

Times New Roman was the standard font for printed work before documents, including cover letters, were primarily read on computer screens and tablets. This is one of the best fonts for cover letters due to it being a serif font, meaning letters have strokes that help make them easier to identify and read.

Calibri has served as Microsoft’s default serif font for nearly 15 years from its creation to today. The software giant is in the process of moving on to new options, but Calibri is still a popular and safe choice for your cover letter. The design consists of more defined lines and curves for lettering, which increases readability.

Lato is one of the best fonts for cover letters for job seekers who want to be professional but add some style. This sans serif font comes in a variety of typefaces from thin to ultra-bold. This modern font was created by Polish designer Łukasz Dziedzic in 2010.

Exo 2 is a redesigned geometric sans serif font created by Portuguese designer Natanael Gama while he was doodling glyphs. This contemporary font grabs attention in the right way while still maintaining professionality. Exo 2 would be one of the best fonts for a cover letter for anyone applying for a creative or non-corporate position.

Helvetica is a classic font that has been a favorite of the business and art worlds since the 1950s. This sans it specifically designed serif font to be neutral, making it one of the best fonts for cover letters as it will not distract the reader from what you have written.

You cannot go wrong with any of the choices mentioned here. Some fonts like Arial and Times New Roman are used more than others, but all are safe options that will not turn an evaluator off from your cover letter on sight. So check them out, make your choice, and write that cover letter!

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Why are cover letter font, size, and style important?

So you’ve slaved away for days on end drafting a great cover letter to go with your resume but you end up choosing an unprofessional font for your cover letter and all your hard work goes in vain because of a minor mishap.

Not exactly a situation that job seekers dream about, isn’t it?

You see, your cover letter font is important because it directly impacts your letter’s readability and appeal.

If the recruiters can’t read the contents of your cover letter with ease, the chances of you being shortlisted are slim.

Whereas, a well-chosen cover letter font with the right styling, size, space, and margin can help you make a good impression on the recruiters.

Read on to learn more about cover letter font and the following related FAQs:

• What font is best for cover letter?
• How to choose a cover letter font?
• What font size should a cover letter be?
• How to set cover letter margins and font spacing?
• What cover letter font style should you use?
• What are some common FAQs about cover letter font?

Top 10 Cover Letter Fonts

When it comes to cover letter font type, the options are plenty. The key is simply to ensure that the font you select looks professional and simple.

Here are some top cover letter fonts that you can choose from:

Times New Roman: If you want to play it safe and go for the traditional approach, Times New Roman is your best choice. This font type is widely used when candidates are applying for government jobs and other traditional industries such as law and medicine.

Helvetica: Being a contemporary font option, this is a suitable choice for your cover letter font if you are seeking jobs in marketing, sales, or business. Due to its concise design, it does not distract the readers from the content.

Calibri: With its modern and light design, Calibri makes for an elegant cover letter font. This font’s popularity has toppled Times New Roman as the default font in Microsoft Word.

Arial: If you are unsure of the type of fonts job seekers generally use in your industry, Arial is a great option for your cover letter font. Due to its sleek and minimal design, the majority of candidates prefer this font style.

Garamond: Garamond is a popular cover letter font used by job seekers in their applications. It is a classic serif font that is commonly used by professionals in both creative and academic industries.

Trebuchet MS: Due to its slightly larger and bolder design, Trebuchet MS takes up more space and is well suited for fresh graduates who are writing a short cover letter with less content.

Didot: Didot is a good cover letter font if you are applying for jobs in the fashion, architecture, or graphic design industries as this cover letter font is considered to be more artist-friendly and creative among others.

Tahoma: This cover letter font type can be a great option for job seekers from any industry as it is very reader-friendly, modern, and simple.

Georgia: Since this font is commonly used by newspapers, it is one of the most popular fonts in the writing industry. With its modern yet classic design, Georgia is a good cover letter font if you are targeting jobs in the writing or creative industries.

Cambria: If you are sending your cover letter in an online format, Cambria is a great font for your cover letter as it was specially designed to facilitate screen reading.

Also read: How to write a cover letter in 2022?

Tips on How to Choose a Cover Letter Font

Even if you want to stray away from a traditional font like Times New Roman and want your cover letter to stand out from the rest, your top priority must be your cover letter’s reader friendliness.

Your cover letter font must not distract the recruiters from its content. Avoid using fonts that include special characters or are too stylish.

Since the majority of employers use the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to select suitable candidates based on the use of relevant keywords in their resumes and cover letters, it is best to use simple cover letter fonts to ensure that the ATS can easily scan your cover letter for the same.

However, this doesn’t mean that your cover letter font must be bland or outdated. You can choose a modern and sharp font that can help your cover letter stand out by following these tips:

Do Your Research

Yes, you need to research the company you’re targeting to probe the type of font they have used in their websites, job listings, press releases, etc.

The chances of them resonating with your cover letter will be higher when they see a familiar font in your cover letter as opposed to a completely new font.

Accordingly, choose a font (from the recommended list) that matches their font type for your cover letter.

Consider the Industry Type

When you are choosing a cover letter font, you must also consider the nature of the industry you’re in.

For instance, if you are applying for jobs in the creative industry such as graphic design, writing, fashion, marketing, etc, you can choose a font with a slightly stylish design like Didot, Helvetica, Proxima Nova, and Garamond.

While aspiring candidates in conventional industries like medical, law, and engineering fields, must stick with traditional fonts like Times New Roman and Calibri.

Ensure Uniformity

Always ensure that you use only one cover letter font throughout your letter.

Mixing and matching is the last thing you want to do in your cover letter as it will distract the recruiters from the content and it also doesn’t look professional.

Instead, you can use different font sizes and types to segregate the headings and the body.

Choose the Correct File Format

To ensure that your cover letter font remains intact, you must save your file in a PDF format unless the recruiters have specified any other format like .doc or Docx. in the listing.

Also read: What are some good cover letter examples?

Cover Letter Font Size and Spacing

The standard cover letter font size commonly used by candidates is 12 points.

However, depending on the type of font you select, the size can be changed between - 10, 11, and 12, points.

The reason is, that certain fonts can appear too small or too large at 12 points due to their spatial proportions.

And since your cover letter must not exceed one page, you can adjust your cover letter font size to fit the page.

But ensure that you don’t go below 10 points and that the smaller cover letter font size does not affect the readability.

If your font size is too small, recruiters may reject your cover letter even before reading it and the ATS may not be able to scan the small font size.

• Consider showing your cover letter to your friends and family for feedback on its reader-friendliness and appeal.

As for the cover letter margins and font spacing, ensure you follow the below-given guidelines:

• Maintain 1.5 line spacing if you are following the 3 paragraph cover letter format
• Stick to the universal business letter margin standard and keep 1" margins on all sides of your cover letter
• Use single space in your cover letter and skip a line between each section (Header, date, address, subject line, salutation, and the 3 paragraphs)
• Left-align the contents of your cover letter to follow the universal business letter standard

Also read: How to start a cover letter?

Cover Letter Font Style

Once you are done choosing the perfect cover letter font size and type, the next step is highlighting crucial details with a different cover letter font style.

While the body of your cover letter will not have any font style, you can use Bold and Italics to draw the recruiters' attention to certain details.

Avoid using cover letter font style like underlining as it serves the same purpose as bolding.

Besides, bolding is the most commonly used cover letter font style to highlight details in professional paperwork.

Also read: How to write a cover letter for resume?

FAQs about Cover Letter Font

Is 11 point font okay for a cover letter?

Yes, depending on the font type of your cover letter, the font size can range between 10-12 points.

Should my cover letter and resume be the same font?

Yes, to maintain uniformity, you must use the same font in your cover letter and resume.

Why are cover letters important?

Cover letters are important because 65% of hiring managers agreed that a well-written cover letter can influence their hiring decision.

Also Read: How to choose an ideal cover letter template in 2022?

Key Points from the Blog

• A well-chosen cover letter font with the right styling and size can help your cover letter make a good impression on the recruiters.
• Always ensure that the cover letter font you select is simple and easy to read .
• Avoid using cover letter fonts that include special characters or are too stylish as it can distract the recruiters from the content and can block the ATS from picking up keywords from your cover letter.
• Use only a single cover letter font type in your letter to ensure uniformity.
• Although the standard cover letter font size used by candidates is 12 points, you can change it between 10-12 points , according to the font type and the amount of content you have in your letter.
• Use cover letter font style like bolding to draw the recruiters' attention to crucial details.

If you are still confused over cover letter font size and style, you can simply use Hiration’s AI-powered cover letter builder which will help you draft a perfect letter without the hassle of selecting the font type or size. You can also write to us at [email protected] .

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Best Cover Letter Fonts for Applications

When you submit a job application, it’s important that hiring managers can read your cover letter and resume easily. Choosing the right font for your application materials is essential in making this part of the process flow smoothly. In this article, learn what the best cover letter fonts are for your next cover letter.

Why are cover letter fonts important?

Choosing the right font is an important step to making sure your cover letter is legible and professional looking. By selecting a simple, easy-to-read font for your cover letter, you can increase the chance that your job application will make a good first impression on the hiring team.

A cover letter with the correct spacing and size can also make it more visually appealing. A hiring manager may be more likely to read the content of your cover letter if it looks simple and businesslike. 

Sometimes, a hiring team may receive hundreds of applications. Since a cover letter is typically the first document a recruiter reviews, the format should be scannable so they can gather basic information about you and your qualifications. If your cover letter impresses a recruiter, they may be more likely to review the rest of your application materials and invite you to an interview.

How to choose the best cover letter font

Follow these steps to choose the best cover letter font:

1. Choose a font that you can use in your cover letter and your resume

When you’re choosing a font for your cover letter, make sure to pick a font that you can use throughout your application and resume. Using one font for both your cover letter and resume creates consistency and looks more professional. 

2. Opt for a professional and easy-to-read cover letter font

When choosing a cover letter font, select a simple option that conveys your professionalism. Since the hiring team may read your application on a desktop, laptop or mobile device, you should ensure that your cover letter font is easy to read even on smaller screens.

You can choose between a serif and sans serif font type. Serif fonts have small strokes at the ends of letters. Sans serif fonts have no strokes at the ends of letters. Opting for a serif font can add a personal style to your application, while choosing a sans serif font can make your letter look simple and straightforward. 

Here are the most popular cover letter fonts for job applications:

• Times New Roman:  As one of the most common fonts for professional documents, Times New Roman can make your cover letter appear uncomplicated. You can use Times New Roman when applying to most companies. 
• Garamond:  This serif font features a classic appearance that can make both your cover letter and resume look professional. Garamond works best for printed cover letters. 
• Cambria:  For a less formal option, you can consider Cambria. This is the standard font for Microsoft Word since it’s easy to read for many users. 
• Georgia:  If you plan to email your cover letter, Georgia is an ideal font. You can also use it if you need to send your materials as electronic documents. 
• Arial:  This is one of the most popular sans serif fonts, as it is visually appealing on both paper and electronic devices. 
• Helvetica:  Similar to Arial, Helvetica is a simple, straightforward sans serif font. Many people believe Helvetica has a more sophisticated look, making it a popular option.
• Calibri:  With its narrow style, Calibri is easy to read on screens, making it a good choice for electronic applications.

3. Use standard formatting with your font

Your resume might include a variety of text formatting, such as bold or italics, to emphasize various details. However, you should use standard formatting throughout your cover letter for simplicity. 

4. Select a professional font size and use it consistently

Choose a font size that is clearly legible. For most fonts, 12-point is the standard size, but some fonts may look better at 10- or 11-point. To find the ideal size for your cover letter, try each of these standard sizes to find the most legible version. Make sure your cover letter easily fits onto a single page.

5. Use appropriate spacing with your cover letter font

The spacing of your cover letter can also have an effect its readability, so it can be helpful to examine different options. Single, double and 1.5 spacing are the most common selections. Remember to leave 1-inch margins around the edges of the document for additional white space and improved legibility.

6. Review your cover letter font choice before submitting

After selecting a font, size and spacing, review the letter prior to submitting it. Make sure the entire cover letter appears both professional and legible. If you are emailing your application materials, consider sending the email to yourself first so you can review first before sending it to the hiring manager. 

7. Save the font and formatting you use in your cover letter

If you plan to send your cover letter electronically, take steps to preserve the format first. When you email your application in word processing format, such as a Microsoft Word file, the formatting may not transfer correctly. Consider converting your cover letter and resume to a PDF file to retain the style. 

If you intend to copy and paste your cover letter into the body of an email, make sure to reapply the font, sizing and spacing to preserve its appearance.

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Best Font For Cover Letter When Applying For A Job

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Free Cover Letter Templates

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Find a Job You Really Want In

Having fantastic content is the most important part of a cover letter . However, your text needs to be presented in a way that makes it easy to read. If your cover letter is hard to read , many people will give up and toss your job application aside.

There are so many things to consider when writing a cover letter for your job search . Not only do the words need to be compelling, but it needs to be formatted in a way that is professional and easy to read as well. Knowing the best cover letter typeface and size can help your cover letter to stand out.

Key Takeaways:

The different types of fonts to use are serif fonts, san-serif fonts, and truetype fonts.

When choosing a font, you want to keep it between 10 and 12 points in size and make sure it is readable on multiple platforms.

You want to chose a font that is professional and consistent through out your resume .

Why Cover Letters Are Important

The importance of a font size, the different font types, how to choose a font size, tips to boost your cover letter readability, final thoughts.

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The cover letter is like the teaser for your resume. If you are worried about how to write an entry-level cover letter , I advise that you don’t use a template.

A cover letter highlights some of the best qualifications you offer as a candidate. It shows your passion and motivation for wanting to join a company. Plus, it shows a few reasons why your skills and experience are a perfect match for their job opening. You want it to make your cover letter stand out so the hiring manager can interview you.

Cover letters help you to :

Stand out against candidates who apply without a cover letter .

Entice recruiters to read your resume.

Explain career gaps.

Discuss reasons for changing careers.

Share the value and ROI you brought in the positions you have held.

Whether you’re aware or not, the font you use plays a vital role in your cover letter’s appearance. The way you format your cover letter can improve your cover letter’s overall aesthetic and allow hiring managers and recruiters to read the content easier.

But if you carelessly pick a random font, it might hurt how your cover letter looks and its readability.

You want to format your cover letter, so the typeface is clean and easy to read. Here are some of the reasons why choosing the right font matters.

Professional. It’s essential to use a font that looks professional. If you use an artsy font, it doesn’t come across seriously.

Consistent for print/web. Select a font that views well in both email and print. Hiring Managers will probably first see your cover letter online. Then they may print it for closer review.

Web-safe fonts. These are fonts that are compatible with both Macintosh and Windows devices. Your cover letter font should view consistently on an Apple device or a Windows PC. Make sure to check your cover letter on different devices, screens, and browsers to ensure that your font looks good everywhere.

PDF compatible. When you convert your cover letter to pdf, you want to ensure that the formatting remains clean in the newly created document. Helvetica or Arial will convert cleanly in regular, bold, italic, and bold italic.

Clean. Sans serif fonts are a standard web-friendly type font. It’s easy to read on-screen. Plus, it views well consistently across multiple browsers.

Easy to read. Some of your recruiters will be older. Using a small font size may allow you to include more on a page , but it makes your cover letter more difficult to read for older hiring managers who wear glasses or readers.

So what are the best recruiter approved fonts? There are generally two types of web fonts available.

Serif fonts: The most notable feature of these fonts are the small line at the end of a big stroke in a letter or symbol.

Examples include:

Times New Roman. This font is single and elegant. This is a great font to use if you want to give your cover letter a basic and formal appearance.

Georgia. This was designed to be read on computer screens and mobile devices. This is perfect if you plan on sending your cover letter over email.

Garamond. This is one of the best fonts for a cover letter. It’s a classic serif design and has delicate strokes.

San serif fonts are the favorite font face to choose for readability. It does not have extensions called “serifs” at the end of strokes. Most fonts from this family usually have a similar stroke width, making it appear modern and minimalistic. Google and Facebook use sans-serif fonts.

San serif fonts are easier to read on a computer screen. So if a hiring manager reads your cover letter on their smartphone, it will be easy to read. It also prints cleanly too. So if they like your cover letter and want to print it out to review more thoroughly, it will still look crisp and clean.

Arial. This is a sans serif font. This classic font is clean and easy to read. That’s why it’s one of the most popular fonts used for business communications. It is the default font in Google Docs. Arial was first created by IBM. But later, Microsoft chose to include Arial in their Windows software.

Trebuchet. This sans-serif typeface was actually designed for Microsoft Corporation by Vincent Connare. It was created to display nicely on a computer screen.

Verdana. This sans-serif typeface was also designed to be viewed on computer monitors. It’s an easily readable typeface even when using small font sizes.

Helvetica. This is a sans serif font that is one of the most popular and widely used fonts. It’s a neutral font that is suitable for any type of business communication.

Calibri. This is a sans serif font. It is the default font for Microsoft Office. It also replaced Arial as the default in PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, and WordPad.

TrueType fonts are the most common format for fonts on Mac and Windows operating systems. The benefit of TrueType fonts is that they display precisely at various font sizes. That means that whether you size the font to 8 or 18, you’ll still be able to read it cleanly on a computer screen. Arial, Trebuchet, and Verdana are TrueType Fonts.

You want to use a font size that is easy to read for the majority of recruiters and hiring managers. With employers reading hundreds of resumes online, you want to ensure your font size reduces eye strain.

Use the standard size. We recommend between 10 to 12 points in size for the main cover letter text. For headers, you can boost the font size to 13 to 16 points for emphasis.

Check the readability. Once you pick a font size, check to make sure you can read it. If you decide to choose the 10 point font, it may be easy for you to read, but consider if others will be able to do it. Check if it’s easy to read on different platforms as well.

Get feedback. After you determine if you can read it, have other people read it. They will be able to tell you if your 10 point font is actually readable or not.

Want to make your cover letter stand out ? Here are some steps to add more impact.

Personalize. Don’t send the same cookie-cutter letter . Take time to read their job description and learn about the company. Then write how and why you are a match for their job opening.

Scan-ability. Most hiring managers are not going to read your cover letter from start to finish. They are going to scan for what they are looking for. They have to sort through piles and piles of resumes to pull out a select few to review.

Small sections. Try to keep your paragraphs shorter. Group information in small sections that a reader can easily scan and find information on a specific point. That way, if they jump from one section to the next, they’ll spot more of the highlights of your document.

Uniqueness. Don’t take things word for word in your resume and include them in your cover letter. You don’t want employers to think that you don’t have creativity. Take the time to wordsmith and create original text about the points you are trying to make.

Proofread. You have probably been working on your resume and cover letter for hours. So it’s hard to spot typos and other errors. Print your cover letter out. Read it out loud. That will help you find grammatical, punctuation, and formatting errors. Plus, you’ll probably find areas that would sound better with an edit to smooth it out.

Consistency. Use a consistent typeface and size for both your cover letter and resume. That way, visually, they look like they belong together. It creates a more polished, cohesive look.

Bullets. If you need to list items in your cover letter, it is much better to use bullets for both readability and scan-ability. It ensures that your information is well organized and listed in an order that makes sense. Plus, it adds visual appeal by leading the reader down the page.

On the first day, draft your thoughts and write the cover letter. On the second day, go through the letter carefully to make everything perfect before finalizing it. Using this two-day writing method will help you write more powerful cover letters.

We have shown you the best cover letter font and size. Now that you know the best choices, it’s time to decide which is the most suitable for your own use.

Good luck job hunting!

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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How to craft a compelling cover letter.

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During the job application process, you should always submit a cover letter alongside your resume. This is particularly important when you’re applying for more competitive, senior positions.

A carefully crafted cover letter allows you to grab the recruiter’s attention and explain to them why you're the best candidate for the job.

But this will only happen if it’s well-written, so your cover letter needs to be persuasive, concise, and engaging. That’s a lot of pressure on just a few sentences, but getting it right will boost your chances of getting a response.

Here is how to craft a compelling cover letter, along with some top tips to increase your chances of securing an interview.

Understand how to set out your cover letter

Your cover letter should appear in the body of an email or as a message if you’re applying through a job site. You should avoid attaching your letter as a separate document, otherwise the recipient is unlikely to read it.

It’s also important that you keep your cover letter short and sweet, remembering that recruiters are busy people and they have to review a lot of applications every day.

With that in mind, it’s best to stick to between 4 and 6 short and snappy sentences.

Make your subject line appealing

The first thing the recruiter will see when they open their inbox is the subject line and a bad subject can instantly ruin your chances of them opening your email at all.

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Instead, you need to stand out and give them a reason to read on.

Don’t simply label the email with the job title or the phrase ‘job application’. Go one step further to prove you are the perfect candidate in just a few words.

What this means is providing a subject line that is a short summary of your experience. For example, ‘project manager with 15 years experience’ or ‘web developer with JavaScript experience’.

Kick-off with a strong introduction

The purpose of your cover letter is to engage the reader instantly and make them want to review your resume and get to know more about you.

So you need to kick off with a strong introduction.

This means addressing the recipient by their name, whether that’s the hiring manager or the employer. You might need to do a little research to find this information, either using the job description, LinkedIn, or the company website.

You should also try to steer clear of overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam” and instead, take a professional but friendly tone starting with ‘hello’ or ‘hi’.

Next, your introductory sentence should outline which role you're applying for and demonstrate what makes you the most suitable candidate for the role.

Crafting a compelling cover letter can be the key to securing your next role.

Showcase your most relevant skills and experience

It can be tricky to know what to include in your cover letter , but the body of your email (or message) should be made up of three or four sentences that highlight your key skills and experience.

You can use the job description to determine which skills and abilities are most important to the employer. That way, you can highlight these and show them what you have to offer.

You should also provide examples from past roles that prove how your previous experience has shaped you and made you the ideal candidate.

Just remember that you only have a few sentences in which to impress them, so first focus on any requirements that are essential to the job. That way, the reader can instantly see that you’re a good fit.

This will encourage them to open your resume.

End with a strong call to action

You should conclude your letter by once again expressing your enthusiasm for the role and stating your desire to secure a personal interview.

Remember, recruiters are busy people, so it’s also important to thank them for taking the time to read and consider your application.

Proofread your letter very carefully

Once you've finished writing your cover letter, you need to proofread it thoroughly to make sure there are no errors. In fact, it’s best to do this several times.

A polished and compelling cover letter should not have any spelling or grammatical mistakes.

This looks unprofessional and sloppy, so take the time to re-read your application. You might even consider using an online spell checker or have a friend or family member review your letter before you send it off, just to be sure.

A well-structured cover letter, complete with tailored, impactful writing is the key to standing out in a crowded job market, and help you to land a job quicker than the average time of 3.8 months.

So, if you hope to secure an interview, be sure to use these tips and insights to craft an engaging and compelling cover letter. It may only be a few sentences long, but it really can give you a competitive edge.

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