Skip to content
Home » Frequently Asked Questions » Is a 500 Word Cover Letter Too Long?

Is a 500-Word Cover Letter Too Long?

Last updated on 7 November, 2025

LiveCareer UK Editorial Team
LiveCareer UK Editorial TeamLiveCareer UK Career Experts
Frequently Asked Questions

Our customers have been hired by*:

It is often recommended that a cover letter should be limited to one page, containing approximately 300–500 words. Within this range, you should be able to effectively showcase your skills, qualifications, and experience while keeping the content concise and focused.

A perfect cover letter definitely shouldn’t go beyond 500 words. Short cover letters are generally more welcomed by recruiters, especially since they have limited time to review each application thoroughly. A short application letter ensures they can quickly grasp your key strengths without sifting through excessive detail. 

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with LiveCareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.

Share article:

Category: Frequently Asked Questions

Current rating:

"Is a 500-Word Cover Letter Too Long?"

5/5

(Based on 4 votes)

About the author

LiveCareer UK Editorial Team

LiveCareer UK Editorial Team

LiveCareer UK CV builder is powered by career experts, CV writers, and HR professionals. Since 2013, our editorial team has supported job seekers with free, research-based career advice and expert tips to improve their job applications. LiveCareer UK CV builder has already helped thousands, and you can be next.

More about author

Looking for a job-winning CV?

Crafting a job-winning CV is all about showcasing your unique skills and experiences. Start with a strong personal statement that highlights your career goals and achievements.

Try Our CV Builder Now
Crafting a job-winning CV