How to Get Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in college applications, providing valuable insights into your high school achievements and character as a candidate. To ensure you receive strong and convincing recommendations, it’s essential to approach this process strategically. This article will guide you on securing impressive letters of recommendation that will make your college application stand out.

Understanding College Requirements

Before requesting letters of recommendation, familiarize yourself with each college’s specific requirements. Typically, colleges expect recommendations from your high school counsellor and one or two teachers. Some institutions may also ask for additional letters from non-academic sources such as a pastor, coach, or even peers. Additionally, certain colleges provide their recommendation forms, while others utilize application services like the Common App with their own forms.

Selecting Your Recommenders Wisely

The choice of recommenders can significantly impact the strength of your application. Opt for teachers with whom you share a positive relationship and who have recently taught you. Look for educators who have displayed consistent interest in and appreciation for your academic progress. Selecting a teacher solely based on personal preference is not advisable; opt for those who have commented thoughtfully on your work and can provide specific examples of your contributions to the class.

Ensuring Strong Recommendations

Whomever you approach for a recommendation should feel confident in their ability to provide a strong and accurate assessment of your capabilities. Avoid seeking recommendations from individuals who cannot offer genuine specifics about your academic performance. Lukewarm recommendations can potentially harm your application. Strong and compelling recommendations are essential, especially if you aim for highly selective institutions like Ivy League colleges.

Allowing Sufficient Time for Recommenders

Request letters of recommendation as early as possible, preferably in the early fall or at least one month before your application deadline. Giving your recommenders ample time ensures that they can craft thoughtful and well-considered letters. Approaching them at the end of your junior year can be advantageous as your achievements and interactions with them are still fresh in their minds, and they have the summer to work on your recommendation.

Assisting Your Recommenders

Make the process easy for your recommenders by providing them with all the necessary forms, instructions, and materials. If you use an application service, inform them about the platform and how they will be invited to complete the recommendation. Additionally, supply them with a copy of your transcript and a short resume summarizing your academic achievements, interests, and goals.

Follow-Up and Gratitude

A week before the letters are due, follow up with your recommenders to ensure that they have submitted their recommendations. Expressing your gratitude for their efforts on your behalf is crucial, as teachers and counsellors are often busy with numerous requests. Inform them of your admissions decisions once they arrive.

Handling Extra Recommendations

Generally, colleges do not require more recommendation letters than specified. However, if someone can offer unique insights into your abilities, it might be worth contacting the admission office to inquire if an additional letter is acceptable. Always seek permission before sending any extra recommendations.

How to Ask for a Recommendation Based on the Position

Asking a Professor or Teacher

Both high school and college students can benefit from obtaining recommendations from professors or teachers. When seeking recommendations from these individuals, consider those with whom you interacted significantly or actively involved in your education. The more specific they can be about your academic performance, the stronger the recommendation will be. Remember that professors and teachers may have busy schedules, so it’s crucial to ask them early and allow them sufficient time to complete the letter.

Asking a Coworker

Professional recommendation letters can be vital when applying for jobs. If you seek recommendations from coworkers, target those who can attest to your work habits, skills, and abilities. Managers or colleagues with more years of professional experience than you are often the best candidates for providing these letters.

Asking a Friend

While avoiding asking friends for recommendation letters is generally advisable, there might be exceptions. If a friend can provide a detailed and relevant testimony of your skills, abilities, and experiences, and their input benefits your application, then it might be worth considering. However, always prioritize recommendations from academic or professional contacts who can offer a more objective perspective.

How Far in Advance Should You Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?

When it comes to requesting a letter of recommendation, it’s essential to give your letter-writers sufficient notice to craft a thoughtful and well-written letter. The ideal timeframe for requesting letters of recommendation depends on the purpose and specific circumstances.

Here are some guidelines on how far in advance you should ask for a letter of recommendation:

For College or Grad School Applications: It’s advisable to ask for letters of recommendation at least 2-3 weeks before the application deadline for college or graduate school applications. This gives your letter-writers ample time to prepare the letter and ensures that they can meet the submission deadline. Remember that some professors or teachers may have busy periods, such as the end of a semester when they are inundated with various tasks. During these times, it’s better to ask even earlier or approach them in person to discuss the request.

For Job Applications: Job applications often have tighter timelines, and you might not have the luxury of weeks or months of notice. However, giving your potential recommenders as much time as possible is still important. If you anticipate applying for jobs in the near future, consider building a reference or credential file. In this file, ask your letter-writers to provide general letters of recommendation that are not specific to a particular role. This way, you can quickly access these letters when needed and submit them along with your job applications.

Creating a List of References: Apart from letters of recommendation, many job applications require a list of references that potential employers can contact. When requesting recommendation letters, you can also ask your letter-writers if it’s acceptable to list them as references for job applications that do not necessitate a formal letter.

In summary, it’s best to plan ahead and approach your letter-writers with enough notice, whether it’s for college applications, job opportunities, or building a reference file. Giving your recommenders sufficient time’ll increase the likelihood of receiving well-crafted and positive letters of recommendation that can enhance your applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are You Allowed to Read Your Letters of Recommendation?

In most cases, applicants cannot read their letters of recommendation. Many applications require applicants to waive their right to access these letters.

Who Should You Avoid Asking for a Letter of Recommendation?

Request recommendations from individuals who are familiar with your academic or professional accomplishments. Avoid seeking letters from distant contacts who lack sufficient knowledge of your work and cannot write an effective letter.

Is Two Weeks Sufficient Time to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?

While some letter-writers may require at least two weeks’ notice, asking for recommendations earlier is always better. Some individuals might need additional time to craft a strong letter, so it’s advisable to approach them well in advance.

How Long Does a Letter of Recommendation Last?

It is possible to reuse letters of recommendation; however, some graduate schools may ask the letter writer to submit the letter directly for each new application. Always confirm the specific requirements of each institution.

Asking for letters of recommendation can feel intimidating, but remember that those you approach typically consider it part of their job and genuinely want to see you succeed. Approach the process thoughtfully and considerately, and you’ll increase your chances of receiving compelling letters that boost your college or job applications.