Letters of recommendation are a key component of many applications, whether for college admissions, scholarships, graduate programs, internships, or jobs. A compelling letter can provide a personal and persuasive endorsement that strengthens your candidacy. However, getting a strong letter of recommendation takes more than just asking someone—you need to plan strategically and communicate clearly. Here are some valuable tips to help you secure outstanding recommendation letters.
1. Choose the Right Recommenders
Not all recommenders are equal. Aim to ask individuals who know you well and can speak meaningfully about your strengths, achievements, and character. Ideal recommenders are:
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Teachers who have taught you recently in a subject relevant to your application.
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Supervisors or mentors from internships, research projects, or jobs.
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Coaches, club advisors, or volunteer coordinators if you’re applying for leadership or service-oriented roles.
Someone with a prestigious title but little knowledge of your abilities won’t write as impactful a letter as someone who can share real examples of your work and growth.
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2. Ask Early—Well Before the Deadline
Give your recommenders plenty of time—ideally 4 to 6 weeks before the letter is due. Asking early shows respect for their time and increases the likelihood of a thoughtful, detailed letter. Teachers and professionals are often juggling multiple requests, especially during application seasons. The earlier you ask, the better chance your letter will stand out.
3. Make the Request Personally and Politely
Whenever possible, make your request in person or via a thoughtful email. Be clear about why you’re asking them specifically and express your appreciation. A message like:
“I really enjoyed learning in your class and appreciated how you challenged us to think critically. I’m applying to [program/school], and I would be honored if you would write me a letter of recommendation.”
shows sincerity and thoughtfulness.
4. Provide Helpful Materials
Make it easy for your recommender to write a strong letter. Provide:
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A copy of your resume or CV
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A list of your accomplishments or activities relevant to the program
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A brief statement of your goals or why you’re applying
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The submission instructions and deadlines
You might also include bullet points about your time working with them—projects you did, improvements you made, or moments that stood out. These reminders help them recall specifics to include in the letter.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
5. Be Organized and Follow Up
Use a checklist or spreadsheet to track who you’ve asked, their deadlines, and whether letters have been submitted. If a deadline is approaching and the letter hasn’t been received, it’s okay to send a polite reminder a week in advance.
Additionally, after the letter is submitted, don’t forget to follow up with a thank-you note. A handwritten note or a thoughtful email goes a long way in showing appreciation.
6. Waive Your Right to View the Letter
When prompted, it’s generally best to waive your right to read the letter (under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act—FERPA—for U.S. applications). Admissions committees typically give more weight to confidential letters, assuming they are more candid and trustworthy.
7. Ask for a Strong Letter—Not Just Any Letter
When you make your request, ask the recommender if they feel they can write a strong letter on your behalf. This gives them the option to decline if they don’t feel they can fully support your application—and that’s better than receiving a lukewarm or generic letter.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
