Asking for letters of recommendation might feel intimidating, but it’s an important step for many applications. Whether you’re applying to college, graduate school, or a new job, a strong recommendation can make a big difference.
What Is a Letter of Recommendation?
A letter of recommendation is a document written by someone who can speak to your skills, character, and achievements. This letter supports your application by offering an outside perspective on your qualifications.
These letters typically come from teachers, professors, employers, or mentors who know you well. They should highlight specific examples of your strengths and accomplishments.
Good recommendation letters include:
• Details about how the writer knows you
• Specific examples of your work or contributions
• Comments on your character and work ethic
• Comparisons to other students or employees
• A clear endorsement of your abilities
The length usually ranges from one to two pages. Most applications require at least one letter, while competitive programs may ask for three or more.
Common Reasons To Request a Letter of Recommendation
People need recommendation letters for many different purposes.
For education, letters support:
• College applications
• Graduate school admissions
• Scholarship applications
• Study abroad programs
• Research opportunities
In professional settings, letters help with:
• Job applications
• Promotions
• Professional certifications
• Fellowship programs
• Industry awards
Personal situations that might require letters include:
• Housing applications
• Volunteer positions
• Club memberships
• Adoption processes
• Immigration applications
Types of Letters: Academic, Professional, Personal
Different settings call for different types of recommendation letters, each with unique content and focus areas.
Academic letters focus on your:
• Classroom performance
• Research abilities
• Academic potential
• Intellectual curiosity
• Study habits
• Leadership in academic settings
Professors and teachers typically write these for college applications, graduate school, and scholarships.
Professional letters emphasize:
• Work performance
• Technical skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Teamwork capabilities
• Professional achievements
• Growth potential
Managers, supervisors, and colleagues usually provide these for job applications and career advancement.
Personal letters highlight:
• Character traits
• Reliability
• Community involvement
• Personal integrity
• Interpersonal skills
These come from mentors, community leaders, or family friends when character references are needed.
Selecting the Right Recommender
Identifying Potential Recommenders
When looking for people to write your letters, think about who knows your work best. You want someone who has seen your skills in action and can give specific examples.
Good recommenders should:
• Be familiar with your achievements
• Have worked with you for at least a few months
• Hold a position relevant to what you’re applying for
• Be able to comment on skills needed for your target opportunity
Consider making a list of 3-5 possible recommenders. Rank them based on how well they know you and how their background connects to your goals.
Remember that a strong letter from someone who knows you well is better than a weak letter from someone with an impressive title.
Professors, Supervisors, Coaches, and Mentors
Different types of recommenders can highlight different aspects of your abilities and character.
Professors might focus on:
• Academic abilities
• Research skills
• Classroom participation
• Writing and critical thinking
Supervisors can speak to:
• Work ethic
• Professional skills
• Teamwork abilities
• Problem-solving approaches
Coaches often emphasize:
• Leadership qualities
• Determination
• Ability to take feedback
• Performance under pressure
Mentors typically highlight:
• Personal growth
• Character strengths
• Long-term potential
• Adaptability and resilience
When To Ask for a Letter of Recommendation
Request recommendation letters at least 4-6 weeks before application deadlines. This timeframe gives professors and supervisors enough breathing room to craft quality letters without feeling pressured.
Summer months might require even more advance notice. Many faculty members travel or conduct research during this period.
For college applications and scholarships with fall deadlines, students should approach potential recommenders in late spring or early summer. This approach shows respect for the recommender’s schedule.
Some recommended phrases when timing your request:
- “I wanted to ask you about 6 weeks before my deadline to respect your busy schedule.”
- “Would you have enough time to write a thoughtful recommendation if I provide all materials by next week?”
- “The application isn’t due until December, but I wanted to ask early in case you need more time.”
Polite and Effective Ways To Ask
How To Draft Your Request Email
- Start with a clear subject line that states your purpose. Something like “Request for Letter of Recommendation – [Your Name]” works well.
- Begin your email with a proper greeting using the person’s title and last name. Remind them of your connection if needed.
- State your request directly in the first paragraph. Mention the position, program, or opportunity you’re applying for.
- Provide specific details about deadlines and submission instructions. You might want to attach your resume or relevant work samples.
Some effective phrases to use include:
- “I would appreciate your consideration of my request”
- “Your insights about my work would be valuable”
- “I’ve valued your mentorship during our time working together”
- “Your expertise in this field would make your recommendation particularly meaningful”
Sample Phrases
These phrases can help you structure your recommendation request:
- “I’m applying for [position/program] and would value your recommendation”
- “Your guidance has been instrumental in my development”
- “I believe you could speak to my abilities in [specific skill]”
- “I would be grateful if you could highlight our work on [specific project]”
- “Please let me know if you need additional information”
- “I understand if your schedule doesn’t permit this commitment”
- “I’ve attached my resume and the job description for reference”
- “The submission deadline is [date]”
- “The recommendation should focus on [specific qualities]”
- “I’d be happy to draft some points that you might consider including”
Recommendation Letter Templates
Asking a Professor for a Recommendation Letter
Template
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I was a student in your [course name] class during [semester/year].
I’m applying for [specific opportunity] and would value your recommendation based on our academic relationship. The deadline is [date], and the letter should focus on [specific qualities].
My resume and relevant information are attached. Please let me know if you could provide this recommendation or if you need additional details.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Asking a Supervisor for a Recommendation Letter
Template
Dear [Supervisor Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I worked under your supervision as [position] in the [department/team] from [dates].
I’m applying for [specific opportunity] and would appreciate your recommendation highlighting my professional performance. The deadline is [date], and they’re particularly interested in [relevant skills/achievements].
I’ve attached my updated resume and job description. Please let me know if you’re able to provide this reference or need any additional information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Asking a Coach for a Recommendation Letter
Template
Dear Coach [Name],
I hope you’re having a great season. I was on your [sport/team] team from [years] as [position/role].
I’m applying for [specific opportunity] and would be honored to have your recommendation based on my athletic experience and character. The deadline is [date], focusing on [leadership/teamwork/dedication].
My athletic resume and application details are attached. Please let me know if you can support my application or if you need more information.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Asking a Mentor for a Recommendation Letter
Template
Dear [Mentor Name],
I hope all is well with you. Thank you again for your guidance during my time at [organization/program] over the past [time period].
I’m applying for [specific opportunity] and would greatly value your recommendation given your insight into my growth and potential. The deadline is [date], emphasizing [personal development/skills].
I’ve attached relevant materials for your reference. Please let me know if you’re available to write this recommendation or need anything else.
With gratitude,
[Your Name]
Following Up After Your Request
How and When To Follow Up Politely
You might want to wait about one week after your initial request before sending a follow-up message. This gives recommenders enough time to consider your request without feeling rushed.
A gentle reminder email works well for follow-ups. Keep it brief and friendly.
You could mention any approaching deadlines to help prioritize your request.
Some appropriate follow-up phrases include:
- “I wanted to check if you’ve had a chance to review my recommendation request.”
- “I’m following up about the recommendation letter we discussed last week.”
- “Just a friendly reminder about the recommendation letter for my graduate school application.”
- “I understand you’re busy, but wanted to check on the status of my recommendation request.”
- “The application deadline is approaching, and I wanted to see if you need any additional information from me.”
Expressing Appreciation and Gratitude: Thank-You Notes
Showing genuine gratitude helps maintain positive relationships with recommenders. Thank them regardless of their response.
You might want to send a thank-you note after they agree to write your letter and another after they submit it.
Personalized thank-you messages are more meaningful than generic ones. Mention specific ways their support has helped you.
Consider sending a handwritten note or small token of appreciation after the recommendation is complete.
You can keep recommenders updated about your application outcomes. Many teachers and mentors appreciate knowing the results of processes they helped with.
Sample thank-you phrases:
- “I deeply appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to support my application.”
- “Your willingness to recommend me means a great deal to my professional development.”
- “Thank you for your guidance and support throughout this process.”
- “I’m grateful for your confidence in my abilities and for expressing that in your recommendation.”
- “Your recommendation has made a significant difference in my application process.”