Unsolicited application: email example for an internship, work-study program, or first job

Do you know a company where you would really like to work, but there are no job openings available online? In that case, sending an unsolicited application email can be a very good idea to find an internship, a work-study opportunity, or a first job. The principle is simple: a clear and targeted message can be enough to catch the attention of a recruiter or the HR department. In this article, you will learn how to write an effective unsolicited application, what subject line to use, what to include in your email, which mistakes to avoid, and how to follow up.

💡 An unsolicited application means contacting a company without replying to a published job offer, in order to present your profile for an internship, a work-study program, or a first job.

Why send an unsolicited application email?

By sending an unsolicited application email, you can access opportunities that are not yet online. A good unsolicited application should be targeted, personalized, and aligned with the company’s needs.

Before writing your application email: what to prepare

Before writing, find out more about the company you are contacting: your email will immediately be more targeted and more professional.

What the company actually does

The department you want to target: marketing, HR, communication, finance, IT, etc.

The type of opportunity you are looking for: internship or work-study program

What you can concretely bring to the company

The idea is for your email to immediately show:

I know who I am writing to, why I am contacting you, and what I can bring to your company.

Who should you send an unsolicited application to?

In a large company, it is better to contact the HR department.

In an SME, reaching out directly to the team manager or head of department can be more effective.

In a small company, you can sometimes write directly to the founder or management team.

If you cannot find any contact details, check the company website, its LinkedIn page, or its careers form.

What subject line should you use for an unsolicited application email?

The email subject line is extremely important. It helps the recruiter immediately understand your intention. It should be clear, precise, and informative.

Choose something direct, such as:

• Unsolicited application – Digital marketing internship – First name Last name
• Looking for an SEO internship – available from May to July 2026 – First name Last name
• Unsolicited application – Communication work-study program – First name Last name

How to write an effective unsolicited application email

1. Start by saying who you are

From the very first lines, the recruiter should understand your profile.

2. Explain why you are contacting this company

This is where you show that your email is not a copy-paste sent to 50 companies.

3. Highlight what you can bring

There is no need to overdo it. The goal is to stay credible.

4. End with an opening

You want a response, not just to send a message into the void.

Example of an application email for an internship

Subject: Unsolicited application – Internship in [field] – Available from [Dates]

Lees ook: Student Job as an Order Picker: The Complete Guide

Hello Ms. [Name],

I am currently a third-year student in [Program] and I am looking for an internship of [Duration] starting from [Dates].

I am reaching out to you because I am particularly interested in your company for its position in the [sector] and for the [type of projects] you develop.

During my studies and several academic projects, I have developed skills in [Skills]. I would be delighted to put them to use within your team.

Please find my CV attached. I remain available to discuss further if my profile could match a current or future need within your company.

Kind regards,

First name Last name

Phone number

LinkedIn

What should you attach to your application email?

Do not send too many documents. Your goal is to stay simple and professional. In most cases, here is what you should attach:

1. a PDF CV
2. a portfolio, if relevant
3. a cover letter only if it adds real value

Mistakes to avoid in an unsolicited application email

Some mistakes come up all the time and can really weaken your application.

1. Sending an email that is too generic: if your message could be sent to any company, it shows immediately.
2. Not specifying what you are looking for: internship, work-study program, student job, availability, etc.
3. Writing an email that is too long: your goal is to make the recruiter want to open your CV.
4. Forgetting attachments: it happens more often than you think.
5. Using an unprofessional email address: choose a simple one, such as firstname.lastname@email.com.
6. Never following up: a polite follow-up can be useful.

When should you follow up after an unsolicited application?

If you have not received a reply after a few working days, you can send a short and polite follow-up email.

Example of a follow-up email

Hello,

I am following up regarding my unsolicited application sent on [date] for an internship in [field].

I remain very interested in the opportunity to speak with you if a position is available within your company.

Kind regards,

First name Last name

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FAQ

Can you send an unsolicited application without experience?

Yes. Even without professional experience, it is possible to send an unsolicited application by highlighting your studies, projects, skills, and motivation.

Should you adapt your application depending on the size of the company?

Yes. In a large company, a more formal and structured email is often preferable. In an SME or a small company, a slightly more direct and personalized message can be more effective.

Is it better to send an unsolicited application by email or through a form on the website?

If the company offers a careers form, it is better to follow that process. But if you find a relevant contact, a personalized email can feel more human and direct.

What should you do if the company replies that it is not recruiting at the moment?

You can thank the person for their reply, show that you remain interested, and ask whether they would be willing to keep your CV for a future opportunity.

How can you know whether your unsolicited application has been read?

You will not always receive confirmation. Some email tools allow read receipts, but the most important thing is to wait a few working days before sending a polite follow-up.