Translation of my cover letter into English

The English equivalent of a covering letter is known as a 'cover letter'.

As with an application in French, it is essential to attach a handwritten or typed letter to the curriculum vitae, also known as a 'resume'.

Why should I translate my covering letter into English?

Should you write your cover letter in English or translate it?

When you wish to apply for a job or study abroad, you will often need to write your covering letter in English. The best way to ensure that your cover letter lives up to your expectations is to find out your language level and take courses to improve it.

Know your language level

Le The Council of Europe has established the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to determine learners' language skills.

The examinations and tests available to you can assess your skill level and certify your proficiency. The most popular language tests include TOEFL, IELTS, BULATS, TOEIC, CEFR and DCL. Each of these tests allows you to measure your level of proficiency in English and determine whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced level.

They include multiple-choice questions, language tests, English exams and Cambridge exams. Depending on your level, you can choose the test that best suits your profile, taking into account the subjects you are familiar with and the English skills you wish to acquire. The tests will also enable you to assess your listening, speaking, reading, writing and knowledge of the language.

English language training

Once you have passed the test and obtained a certificate, you can enrol on Cambridge courses or foreign language courses to improve your oral and written skills. The results of the test can also be used to determine whether you are ready to move on to the next level in English and obtain certificates such as the FCE or the Certificate of Competence in English.Professional English.

You can then write a cover letter in English that lives up to your expectations and reflects your level of knowledge of the language.

Writing your own covering letter in English

Writing a covering letter in English can be difficult, but with a few examples and a good dictionary, you can succeed. It's important to remember that the cover letter should be short and concise, and should include polite phrases and useful sentences. Examples of cover letters in English and free templates are available on many sites, which offer specific examples for internships, jobs, masters degrees and interpreters in Paris.

Once you have written your cover letter, it is advisable to reread it several times and show it to a real English speaker to check spelling and grammar. Once your letter is ready, you can successfully apply for your job or work placement.

What should you do if you don't have enough English to write your covering letter?

Translate yourself or have someone else do it for you?

Translating a covering letter yourself from one language to another is not recommended as it can easily be misinterpreted. Words and expressions can have different meanings depending on the context and the target audience. What's more, it's important to take into account the language level of your recipient when writing a cover letter.

It is best to use the services of a professional translator if you are not at ease with the English language.

When you call on the services of a professional translator, you are really speaking to a native English speaker. He or she will help you avoid misunderstandings and use the right formulas and idioms for your application.

FAQ cover letter translation

Should I choose Standard English, American English or British English to translate my covering letter? What are the differences between the three?

The language you choose depends on the country you are sending your cover letter to. If you are sending your letter to the United States, it is preferable to use American English. If you are sending your letter to the UK, it is preferable to use British English. Standard English is a neutral form of English that can be used to communicate with people all over the world. The main differences between the three are vocabulary and grammar.

How much does it cost to translate a cover letter?

The exact cost will depend on the translator you choose and the length of your letter. Most translators charge by the hour or by the page. The average charge for a covering letter is between 30 and 50 euros.

How do I find a translator for a letter of application?

You can find a translator for a letter of application by consulting specialised translation websites, contacting translation agencies or asking your professional or friendly networks. You can also contact universities and language schools to find qualified translators.

Is it difficult to translate a covering letter into English?

Yes, translating a covering letter into English can be difficult. It is important to write the letter in the right structure and use the right vocabulary so that your letter is clearly understood.

Is there a risk of errors if I have my application letter translated by a friend or an amateur translator?

Yes, if you have your application letter translated by a friend or an amateur translator, there is a risk of errors. It is better to use a qualified professional translator to ensure that your letter is correctly translated and that your message is clear and precise.

Can a translator specialise in human resources?

Yes, a translator can specialise in human resources. Most professional translators specialise in a particular field and can offer quality translations of documents related to their chosen field.

Should your covering letter be translated into English or written directly in English?

It is best to write your covering letter directly in English if you are comfortable with the language. However, if you are not at ease with English or if you want to be sure that your letter is correctly translated, you can call on the services of a professional translator.

What are English levels C1, C2 and C3?

C1 and C2 are the highest levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Level C1 corresponds to a level of "advanced proficiency" and level C2 to a level of "mastery". People who have reached level C1 or C2 are considered to be very competent speakers or writers of English. Level C3 corresponds to a level of mastery of the language.

How do I know if my English is C1, C2 or C3?

You can find out whether your level of English is C1, C2 or C3 by taking a placement test. There are many online placement tests that can help you determine your level of English.

What is TOEIC?

Le TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)) is an English language proficiency test designed to measure a person's language skills in a professional context. The test is internationally recognised and is widely used by universities, companies and government bodies.

It does not measure English levels in terms of C1, C2 or C3.

10 tips to improve your English quickly

1. Practise English regularly. Read books and articles in English, watch films and TV programmes in English and listen to music in English.

2. Try interactive activities such as word games, role-playing and card games.

3. Talk to people who speak English. This can be online or in the real world.

4. Write essays and compositions in English.

5. Study different accents and idioms.

6. Practise your pronunciation and elocution.

7. Use applications and websites to help you learn.

8. Do comprehension exercises to improve your understanding of English.

9. Listen to recordings of English and repeat what you hear.

10. Study the most common vocabulary and expressions.

Yes, there are many free online English courses. You can find courses on websites such as BBC Learning English, The British Council and Open Culture.Are there any free English courses?

You can also sign up for free courses on social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Tik-Tok.

Find out more tips for writing a covering letter on the CVsansfaute blog.