how to make a resume for college recommendation letter

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How to make a resume for college recommendation letters.

A college recommendation letter can be a deciding factor between two applicants. Providing a copy of your resume to the people who will be writing college recommendation letters for you can be very helpful. Even people who have known you for a long time may not be familiar with all of your achievements. A resume can remind that person of your education background, work and internship experiences, skills, interests and various accomplishments. Incorporating details from your resume into their recommendation letter will make it appear that they know you better than they do.

Gather information about your grades, volunteer opportunities, work background, sports awards and leadership accomplishments. All of this information will prove helpful to the individual writing your college recommendation letter. The letter-writer should attest to how well-rounded you might be.Your resume provides relevant information so the letter will be focused on your qualifications.

Select a resume template in Microsoft Word. On the "File" menu, click the "New" button. In the "New Document" task panel under "Templates," click on the "Templates on Office Online" button and then select a resume. The template will help provide the resume's necessary information in a logical, easy to read sequence. This will allow the individual writing your college recommendation letter to more easily view your qualifications.

Include your personal information. Write your name, address, phone number and email address on the top of the first page of the resume. Personal information such as marital status, age, religion and political affiliation should not be included.

List your educational background, with the most recent education first. Include the name and location of your school, major fields of study, your cumulative GPA and expected graduation date.

List any academic awards and achievements you have earned, such as honor roll and National Honor Society. Include any academic achievements that deserve recognition, which will provide the writer with more information for your college recommendation letter. List any extracurricular activities such as high school sports, clubs and leadership activities. Describe activities that show a pattern of interest that are relevant to college. An effective letter will focus on the qualities that set you apart from other applicants. Colleges are interested in academics but also want well-rounded students.

List your employment history, with the most recent jobs and internships listed first. Include your positions, employers, the dates you worked and a brief summary of your responsibilities. This information will help the writer reflect on your work ethic. Your employment history might also justify any poor academic performance if you were limited in your study time. Knowing this could help the writer address any underlying reasons why you previously struggled academically but will excel in college.

List your skills, abilities and interests. Include your technical and computer skills and any proficiency in a foreign language. An aptitude for a foreign language could reflect on your ability to excel in college. A personalized recommendation letter holds more value than one written by an individual who barely knows the person he's recommending.

• Have a teacher, friend or family member review your resume carefully before you distribute it.

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How to Get a Great Letter of Recommendation

Some colleges will ask for two or three letters of recommendation during the application process. These letters should be written by someone who can describe your skills, accomplishments, and personality.

Why do colleges ask for recommendations? Colleges value recommendations because they:

• Show your talents beyond test scores and grades.
• Describe real-life examples of your personality and character .
• Discuss your relationships in the academic community.

A recommendation letter can help your application stand out, especially when it highlights your skills, accomplishments, and positive attitude toward education.

When Should I Ask for a Recommendation Letter?

Teachers need as much time as possible to complete a recommendation letter. They often have many recommendation letters to write, along with lesson planning and grading.

You should try to get your request to them as soon as possible, but give your references at least a month to complete and submit your letters. The start of your senior year is a good time to begin asking teachers for recommendation letters, especially if you’re applying for early decision. Remember, the more time your teacher has, the more likely they'll write you a thoughtful, detailed letter.

Who Should I Ask to Write a Letter of Recommendation?

It's up to you to find people to write academic letters of recommendation. These tips can help you through the process:

• Read each of your college applications carefully. Schools often ask for letters of rec from a specific person, such as a core subject teacher, specific subject teacher, or school counselor.
• Get advice from teachers, counselors, and family members on who would be best to write your recommendation letters.
• Be sure to select a current teacher or one from your junior year, preferably one who knows you well. Don't choose teachers you had several years ago, since colleges want to know who you are and what you are like now.
• Teachers who know you outside of the classroom are a good choice. Consider a teacher who led a club you were in.
• If requested by the college, you can also think about other adults who know you well. A coach, employer, or club adviser can say a lot about your skills and character. Ask your admissions officer if it okay to submit recommendations beyond what is required by the college.
• Above all else, choose someone who will be enthusiastic about writing your letter.
• If you’re unsure about asking someone in particular, politely ask if he or she feels comfortable recommending you. That’s a good way to avoid letters that sound weak or forced.

How to Be Sure You Get a Glowing Letter of Recommendation

Some teachers write many recommendation letters each year. While teachers don't intend to, their letters can start to seem generic after a while. Make it easy for them to give positive, detailed information about your achievements and your potential by refreshing their memory so that they can share specific details about your school career.

It can also be helpful to provide your teacher with a resume or “brag sheet.” Something you might want to include on your brag sheet or in your discussion with your teacher include:

• Your class participation
• Some of your best work/projects
• What you learned in their class
• Anything they need to discuss for specific work examples

If you need to get a college letter of recommendation from a counselor, be sure to do the following:

• Make an appointment to meet with your counselor if that’s an option, or follow your school’s specific process for receiving a counselor recommendation.
• Discuss your skills, accomplishments, and hobbies. Also, talk about what you want to do in college and beyond.
• If you have low grades or any other issues on your transcript, talk to your counselor about what happened and what you've done to improve.

It's also a good idea to follow up with your teacher or counselor to see if they have any questions on what is listed on the brag sheet or need more information. And don’t forget to say, “Thank you!”

Final Recommendation Tips

Before asking for a letter of recommendation, remember these tips:

• Waive your right to view recommendation letters on your application forms. Admission officers will trust them more if you haven’t seen them.
• Requests for recommendations are often sent via email. Make sure that they have the correct email address of the recommender.
• Let teachers know the deadline for each college and ask them about their preferred turnaround time.
• You can keep track of your letter of recommendation submissions in your application portal. You can politely follow up with your teacher if the deadline is approaching but you see your letter has not been submitted yet.
• Once your letters are complete, write a thank-you note to your references. Once you decide which college to attend, you can also tell your references where you’re going and let them know how much you appreciate their support.

Below are some of students' most-asked questions about how to ask for a college letter of recommendation.

How do I address a recommendation letter?

Be sure to give your teacher or counselor the instructions for how the recommendation will be submitted, but most recommendations are sent through an application portal. Instructions are usually provided to the recommender in the electronic request they receive from the portal.

How do I ask teachers for letters of recommendation?

It can seem daunting to ask a teacher for a recommendation, but remember that your teachers are among your biggest supporters and they want you to succeed.

The best way to ask is to simply ask. Find a time when your teacher isn't busy and ask them directly. Don't go with friends, and try to avoid emailing. Be sure you have any information your teacher may need to write the recommendation and give them plenty of time to complete it.

How should I ask for a letter of recommendation by email?

Try to avoid asking by email if at all possible. However, if you're in an unavoidable situation—for example, you or your teacher changed schools—then emailing is fine. Start by reminding them of who you are, and tell them something specific you liked about their class.

Be sure to include any links they may need. In most cases, once you have asked your teacher or counselor if they are willing to write a letter of recommendation, you will then submit the recommendation request via your application platform, like Common App. Your teacher or counselor will receive the request directly from the portal. You should confirm specific instructions for each institution or scholarship that you need a recommendation for. If the letter has to be sent through the mail, get their mailing address so that you can send them the information plus an addressed and stamped envelope.

How do I politely ask for a letter of recommendation for college?

Some teachers get so many requests for college recommendation letters that they simply can't accept them all. You can often make yourself stand out just by being polite.

Ask your teacher at an appropriate time during the day, and be sure to ask as far in advance as possible. Provide your teacher with anything they may need, like an email address or letter template, work samples, resume, and anything else that can be helpful. When you make it easy on your teacher, they'll be more likely to say yes.

How do I request a letter of recommendation from a principal?

Stop by the school office or send an email requesting a meeting with your principal. Be direct, and ask politely. As your principal probably won't have as much knowledge of your academics, you should prepare a summary and a resume. Don't forget to ask your principal as far in advance of the letter's due date as possible.

How do I ask for a letter of recommendation from someone I don't know well?

While you should always try to choose teachers who know you well for your recommendation letters, sometimes, you have no option. You should only use this option if the school you are applying to requires a letter of recommendation and you have not established a relationship with any teachers or counselors. Otherwise, you should always ask someone who knows you well. When asking someone you don't know well, the best option can often be asking them in person and then telling them more about who you are.

If the first conversation goes well, you can send a follow up email more information and consider requesting another meeting. Since they don't know you well, be sure to have a resume and a summary of your time and accomplishments in their class.

Who should I not ask for a letter of recommendation?

You may be tempted to ask a well-known teacher, but if that teacher doesn't know you well, the letter won't mean a lot. You should also avoid teachers that you had several years ago.

Don't ask a family member or a friend for a recommendation as a college may not take them seriously. You should always follow the guidelines from the colleges you are applying to when choosing who to write your letter of recommendation. Finally, if you have a teacher that doesn't have the best opinion of you, avoid asking them for a recommendation letter.

What should a college letter of recommendation include?

A recommendation letter should feel personal to the school: The teacher should state why you'd be a good fit for that particular college, and should include information that will not be found elsewhere on your application. For example, your letter of recommendation shouldn’t repeat the list of student activities already on your college application. It should include any relevant projects or work you've done. Experiences that relate to your character and academic potential are helpful, too. The teacher should include specific details about their experiences with you. Letters of recommendations can be brief and bullet points are fine! Remember that admissions officers are reading thousands of these letters, so sometimes less is more.

Find the right college for you.

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How To Write A Letter Of Recommendation For A College Application

Updated: Aug 3, 2023, 10:38am

Letters of recommendation are crucial to the college application process at both the undergraduate and the graduate level. As a teacher, professor, employer or mentor, you can attest to an applicant’s qualifications and character by writing a letter of recommendation that highlights their academic performance and rounds out their college application.

As admission cycles begin, a student may ask you to write a letter of recommendation for their application. If you’re unsure how to write a letter of recommendation, start by telling the admissions committee something about the applicant that they’re unlikely to glean from a résumé or transcript.

Read on to learn more about how to write a letter of recommendation for college admissions.

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What’s the Purpose of a Recommendation Letter?

Schools count on letters of recommendation to present admissions officers with a more rounded picture of an applicant. These letters should cover the applicant’s skills and accomplishments and reveal something of the applicant’s character.

Letters offer a platform to highlight human qualities that even the most impressive GPA or list of extracurriculars can’t convey. Essentially, the recommendation letter helps an applicant stand out against the competition.

What to Expect from a Letter of Recommendation Request

Being asked to write a letter of recommendation can feel honorable, but if asked last-minute or without materials, it might feel more like a burden.

Applicants should demonstrate a respect for your time by giving you advanced notice. Six to eight weeks is the standard for academic references.

Applicants should also provide basic reference material for your letter—at least an up-to-date and properly formatted résumé, work samples or a portfolio. A “brag sheet” listing an applicant’s noteworthy awards or achievements can help direct the letter.

Don’t hesitate to ask for these materials if the applicant hasn’t provided them, or pass on the letter if the request feels too last minute.

Questions to Consider Before Saying ‘Yes:’

Did the applicant give you enough notice.

Ask yourself if you have enough time to write a good letter. Decide whether a late request merits the same consideration you’d give to an applicant who submitted a request on time.

Do You Have Enough Experience With the Applicant?

Remember that your own credibility, not just the applicant’s, is at stake in a recommendation letter. A sincere recommendation describes your direct experience with the applicant.

Before agreeing to write the letter, recall times when you supervised or advised the student on projects or papers. Did their work display skills and strengths you can discuss?

If you conclude that you don’t have adequate experience with the applicant, you’re most likely not the best choice to write the letter of recommendation.

Are You Excited to Recommend the Applicant?

Any hesitation on your part may be a warning sign. If your gut is telling you that you can’t provide unqualified support, or write an adequate recommendation with the materials or timeline provided, it’s probably better for both parties if you decline the request.

What to Do if the Answer Is ‘No’

Let the applicant know quickly and politely, so they have time to find an alternate recommender.

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

Begin with the traditional components of a business letter in the standard format. On separate lines, first include the date followed by the recipient’s name, title and address. If you’re submitting a print letter, make sure it’s printed on your institution’s official letterhead.

If possible, address the recipient by name, using “Mr.” or “Ms.” If you don’t have an actual name, use “To Whom It May Concern.” In both cases, follow the salutation with a colon instead of a comma.

Introduction

Open by introducing yourself and describing your relationship to the applicant. Give a concise account of your professional experience and expertise.

Recommendation Overview

Summarize your experience with the applicant, describe their strengths (including examples), and explain their relevance to the undergraduate or graduate school application at hand. Cite academic abilities and qualifications while highlighting characteristics like a talent for problem-solving or collaborating with others.

Personal Anecdote

This is where you can make your letter personal. What was it like to teach or work with the applicant? Include firsthand observations and specific details from your time together.

Think about how you can humanize the student. Mention one or two personal traits relevant to an academic career (curiosity and persistence, for instance), and address any hurdles the applicant has overcome—both in and out of the classroom—that have contributed to their growth.

Finish with a statement summarizing your recommendation, then provide contact information and encourage the school to reach out to you for any follow-up questions. Use a straightforward and professional signoff, like “sincerely” or “best regards.” Follow your printed name with your full title and the name of your school or institution.

Tips for Writing a Recommendation Letter

Examples are key.

The human element counts for a lot in a recommendation letter. Your letter should help the reader better understand the person you are recommending. Provide specific examples related to the applicant’s class performance while highlighting intellectual attributes and personal qualities that distinguish the applicant.

Focus on the Positives

Your recommendation should be a sincere show of support, so avoid criticism or commentary that allows for negative interpretation. Convey genuine enthusiasm through your choice of adjectives and verbs.

Additionally, avoid “faint praise” such as mentioning the student’s attendance record or ability to complete assigned readings—these are baseline requirements that every candidate is expected to fulfill.

If a superlative comparison between the applicant and other students is warranted, include it. (For example, “She is one of the most promising researchers I have ever encountered in my academic career.”)

Maintain a Formal Tone

Adhere to a formal, polite tone throughout your recommendation, much as you would in a standard business letter. Concision counts: Aim for a length of one to two pages unless the institution specifies a length. The admissions committee may regard anything longer as overkill.

Similar principles apply to formatting. Whether submitted in print or electronically, a recommendation letter should use a business-like font like Times New Roman or Arial (in other words, this is not the place for Comic Sans). Stick to an 11- or 12-point font size or email equivalent (“Normal” in Gmail, for instance).

Pay Attention to the Instructions

The applicant should provide specifications on how to submit the letter, including content, length and deadline. Look for instructions regarding format and whether the institution expects to receive a hard copy, an email, or (less likely) submission via an online form. Above all, keep the due date in mind.

Carefully proofread the letter to catch any grammatical mistakes or typos. Print a hard copy and read it out loud; that way, you’re less likely to overlook errors. To be truly thorough, let someone else review a draft of your letter before you send it off.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

How do i write a good letter of recommendation.

A successful letter of recommendation adopts a formal, polite tone and demonstrates the writer’s personal experience with the applicant in one to two pages. The letter should round out the applicant’s college application alongside their transcript and résumé. It should highlight firsthand evidence of the applicant’s abilities and personal characteristics.

How do I write a simple letter of recommendation?

Begin by introducing yourself and describing your credentials. Tell the reader whom you recommend, how long you’ve known the student and in what contexts you’ve interacted with them. From your perspective as a teacher or mentor, describe the applicant’s strongest qualities and share a few details about what the applicant is like as a person.

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Recommendation Letters: How to Prepare, Write, and Format (for educators)

Sep 1, 2024 | Articles , Essays & Recommendation Letters , Financial Aid & Scholarships

So, a student asked you for a recommendation letter . Now what? How do you write a high-impact recommendation letter?

Recommendations are critical for securing scholarships and admission. A 2019 survey from the National Association for College Admission Counseling found that colleges put more weight on recommendation letters from counselors and teachers than activities or interviews, especially schools with test-flexible policies. Use these tips to help.

Getting Started with Your Recommendation Letter

Ask the applicant for supporting information (resume, transcript, application) to make writing the letter easier for you and more focused on what the student hopes to achieve.  Once you have that information, make sure you follow the specific request requirements. Pay close attention to where and when to submit, the required format (PDF or other), what content to include, etc.  Note to counselors:  It’s a good idea to set a deadline for students to ask teachers for recommendations. This will discourage last-minute requests that make teachers scramble to get recommendations in on time. 

Know Whom You’re Recommending

Encourage your students to choose recommenders carefully—those they know and who have a good feel for whether or not they would succeed at the school they’re applying to.  Only write recommendations for students for whom you can give a positive recommendation. Your letter can make a difference in a student’s future. If you cannot be positive, decline the request. Suggest possible alternative recommendation sources, if you can.

Go Deeper than Their Accomplishments

When you write a recommendation letter , do your best to tell stories instead of just stating facts. Students will highlight their activities and academic strengths in their application and academic resume. Your job is to add color to what they’ve accomplished in their high school career. If you can, use examples that are rich with details to sway readers. The more specific and detailed the information you include, the more valuable the letter will be to selection committees.  Always consider your audience. Put yourself in the place of the recipient (dean, admissions officer, director) and think about what you’d want in a meaningful recommendation letter.

How to Write a Recommendation Letter

Remember that less is more. Get to the point and clearly explain why the student would be a good fit for the school.

Paragraph 1. Start with a strong introduction like, “It’s my pleasure to recommend…” and share your position/school, how you know the student, and how long you’ve known them. Build the context quickly so you can get to the most important part of your letter.

Paragraphs 2-4+. Highlight key strengths or character traits of the student. Provide the evidence to support your words through specific descriptions, using examples and data if possible.

Closing. Emphasize your endorsement with phrases like “strong candidate” or “highest recommendation.” Include your phone number and email in case the school or program has additional questions. 

Review, edit, and proofread. Double-check that you’ve included all the required information and provided the best recommendation possible. Reread aloud, acting as the recipient, and decide if you would select the student based on your letter. 

——

Writing recommendation letters can be a thankless task. Beyond the satisfaction of knowing that you may have catapulted someone’s future, we hope that you’ll at least receive a handwritten thank you note. You’ve more than earned it.

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Recommendation Letters

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Unlike some other aspects of an application, you can’t do much to oversee or micromanage the content of your letters of recommendation. Whether you see it as a blessing or a curse, the truth of the matter is that your letters of recommendation are only valuable to admissions officers insofar as you can pledge that you weren’t involved in the process of writing them in any way.

That said, your application to college is just that— yours. In light of this, there are things you can do at every step of the process to ensure that you’re putting your best foot forward, and your letters of recommendation are no exception. Read on for a step-by-step guide to putting together your letters of recommendation.

First, the Basics: Do Letters of Recommendation Matter?

Every part of your application matters—up to and including the letters of recommendation submitted alongside your personal work. These comments do the important work of presenting you through the eyes of another. In most scenarios, this is an advantage rather than a detriment. Your teachers, coaches, and mentors aren’t looking to divulge dirty secrets about you or paint you in a bad light, and in the likely event that they sing your praises, that information means more coming from them than you.

That said, it is imperative that you resist the temptation to read your letters of recommendation before sending them to colleges. The CommonApp provides you with an optional waiver to sign, which allows you to pledge that you have not read your letters of recommendation before submitting them to colleges. You should certainly sign it. Submitting your application without signing this waiver effectively voids the impact your personal statements may otherwise have.

How Many Are There?

This will vary from school to school. You should double-check the requirements of each application you submit, but generally, if a college accepts the CommonApp, you should plan to submit two letters of recommendation.

As a rule of thumb, you should refrain from submitting any extra documents with your application unless you think it vitally necessary. Colleges receive thousands of applications each composed of several documents, and admissions officers must sift through all of this material in an extremely short time frame. If you decide to send in even one extra letter of recommendation, you must truly believe that each recommender you’ve commissioned will share different information that is vital to a college’s understanding of you as an applicant. Otherwise, your documents will be an annoyance rather than a benefit to your candidacy.

Who Should I Ask?

Thought it may seem obvious, you should start your list of possible recommenders with teachers that you think could easily write a glowing letter of recommendation for you. Was there a class that you totally loved? Did you struggle in a course that demanded you work especially hard and find that it paid off in the end? Have you become particularly close to a teacher who you feel really understands you as a person? Any of these scenarios are perfect grounds for considering a teacher as a possible writer for one of your recommendation letters. For more on this, check out our deep-dive on recommender relationships here .

On a (perhaps) related note, if you already know what you want to study in college, it can be helpful to hear from a teacher that has taught you related coursework in high school. This can be especially useful if you are a applying to a vocational or major-specific program, though if you’re on undecided on that front, you should read this and this first!

It can also be useful to think about showing range in your letters of recommendation, though it is by no means necessary. If you’re having trouble narrowing down your list of teacher recommenders, you can consider asking teachers that can attest to your skills in different disciplines.

Finally, it’s best to ask teachers that have taught you in junior or senior year of high school, who can attest to your current work ethic and reference recent assignments. On a similar note, a teacher from your senior year of high school can probably only write you a strong letter of recommendation if they taught you previously or advised a club in which you participated.

How and When to Ask

It’s never too early to reach out to your chosen recommenders . If your first-choice teacher will likely receive requests from many other students, you could ask at the end of junior year. If you’re unsure of whom to ask, it’s best to spend your summer deciding and return to school ready to request your letters in late August or early September.

At the very latest, you should reach out to teachers  a full month before their letters are due. Not only do you owe them the courtesy of providing ample time to write and submit a letter, but you must also budget in some time for the possibility that your first-choice recommender could somehow be indisposed.

When you email your teacher, coach, or mentor asking for a recommendation letter, you should let them know what school or schools you’ll send it to and what date it is due. It should go without saying that your email should be constructed as a question—never assume that a teacher will be able to write a letter for you until they agree to do so.

What You Can Do to Help

Once your recommenders have agreed to write a letter of recommendation for you, you can provide them with further information about yourself, your goals, and your accomplishments. Though you should certainly ask for letters only from people who already know you, it will be helpful to write these details down for their reference.

You can provide your writers with as much or as little information about yourself as you like. Your resume is a good place to start; send them a copy if you have one! You might also think a bit about why you chose this teacher and share that with them.  Did you work particularly hard in their class? What personal skills have you made use of or shown in their class? Why are they well positioned to speak on your behalf? Writing these things down for your teacher may be helpful as well.

In addition, you could at this point go into more depth about the colleges to which you’ll be sending their letters alongside your application. Let them know why you can picture yourself at those specific schools so that they know you’ve put thought into your college list .

You may want to set up a quick meeting with your recommender to go over some or all of this information in person. While it is helpful to have these things written down, you can probably do a better job explaining them out loud. More importantly, you don’t want to drop all of this information into your teacher’s lap remotely. He or she is doing you a favor, and you owe it to them to make the process as easy and enjoyable as possible.

The CommonApp should alert you when your recommenders have submitted their letters, even if you’ve waived your right to read them (as you should!). If you see that your teachers have not submitted their letters of recommendation a week before the due date, it can’t hurt to send them a quick email reminder of the due date.

Say Thank You!

This is arguably the most important part of the whole process! Thank your recommenders with a letter of gratitude—they are, after all, doing you a favor. As well, keep them updated on news about your application statuses as you receive it. They deserve to know how things pan out, and will likely want to be there for you when you hear both bad and good news!

For More Information

Need more guidance on how to approach the recommendation letter portion of your college applications? Check out these previous blog posts on the subject:

How to Get a Standout Recommendation Letter 

Will Getting a Letter from an Alumnus, Famous Person, or Government Official Boost my Chances?

Getting The Best Recommendation Letter

10 Tips For Talking To Your High School Teachers

Curious about your chances of acceptance to your dream school? Our free chancing engine takes into account your GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, and other data to predict your odds of acceptance at over 500 colleges across the U.S. We’ll also let you know how you stack up against other applicants and how you can improve your profile. Sign up for your free CollegeVine account today to get started!

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Complete Guide: Writing a Strong Letter of Recommendation

Letters of Recommendation

As an English teacher and college counselor working with high school students, I've had the privilege and responsibility of writing letters of recommendation. Starting out, I had a strong urge to help, but no clear sense of what exactly should go into a reference letter. If they all speak to students' impressive qualities and accomplishments, what makes some letters stand out among the rest?

To answer this question, I researched recommendation letters from both sides of the college process, drawing on the advice of high school counselors and teachers and the perspective of college admissions officers. I also read dozens of recommendation letters, from the ones that admissions committees loved to the ones that were cast aside as mediocre, useless, or straight up negative about a student.

This article compiles the most important lessons I learned through this research and my own work supporting students through the college process. Read on for a discussion of what exactly needs to go into the kind of rec letter that effectively advocates for a student and boosts her admissions chances.

First, let's take a deeper look at what purpose recommendation letters serve when they arrive before an admissions committee.

The Goal: What's the Purpose of Letters of Recommendation?

Admissions officers put a lot of weight on recommendation letters. Especially in selective admissions, when thousands of qualified students are competing for a limited number of spots, reference letters can go a long way toward differentiating one student from another. According to Harvard dean of admissions William Fitzsimmons, recommendation letters are "extremely important" and are read "with great care" (often projected onto large screens in front of the whole committee!).

So what are all these carefully reading admissions officers looking for? Two main features. The first is an insightful, in-depth story of the student that reveals both her academic skills and personal qualities. As a teacher, you're in a great position to comment on a student's intellectual curiosity, creativity, and attitude towards learning.

Additionally, you can speak to a student's admirable personal qualities, like her sense of integrity, compassion, and leadership skills, to name a few. This in-depth look gives an admissions committee a holistic view of your student beyond the grades and clubs listed on their application. It helps the student come to life.

The second main feature that admissions committees typically look for is a student's potential to contribute positively to the college community , as well as to succeed after graduation. In your recommendation, you can state your confidence about a student's success on campus and future achievement.

Certain qualities are especially impressive to admissions officers and hint at success in college, though this might vary somewhat by individual. Some of these qualities include love of learning, academic commitment, communication skills, commitment to mastery of a specific skill or area, and leadership capacity.

Since these personal qualities may not be apparent on the rest of the application (apart from the student's own personal essay), the letters of recommendation can go a long way toward describing a student's best traits. Plus, they show that a student has teachers who are motivated to advocate for her.

Of course, hopefully no one would agree to recommend a student and then write bad, sabotaging things in the recommendation letter. It's generally safe to assume that all recommenders want to support students in continuing their education. But mediocre letters can often be just as bad as ones that are outright critical, and merely "good letters" pale in comparison to excellent ones. So what must go into a letter of recommendation to make it particularly strong and effective?

How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation

The strongest letters of recommendation take time and thought to craft. They're individualized to each student and are thoughtfully revised for word choice and flow of ideas. First and foremost, what content is essential for a strong letter of recommendation?

Include Key Content

Perhaps the best way to describe what a letter of rec should include is to start out by describing what it shouldn't include. A rec letter should not simply be a restatement of a student's grades, clubs, and awards. All of these facts and figures should already be stated on the student's application.

The most ineffective rec letters just repeat a student's resume. Admissions officers are hoping for deep insights into a student's character, rather than a list of data points that could apply to any number of students.

This is not to say that recommenders shouldn't mention what a student has achieved or been involved in, but they shouldn't feel compelled to list every single accomplishment. Instead, writers can point to a specific involvement or story that demonstrates something meaningful about the student.

For instance, you might be writing about Michael, whose powerful commitment to equality and education led him to establish a Gay-Straight Alliance at the school. In this way, you're discussing something a student has done to illuminate something significant and admirable about his character and motivations. Speaking about his establishment of the GSA is more illustrative than simply stating that he's committed to equality and social justice.

So if reiterating the student's grades and activities (i.e., resume points) shouldn't go into the rec letter, what should? MIT offers an insightful breakdown of the questions its admissions officers would like answers to in a letter. These questions are a useful guide for recommenders writing to any college.

• What is the context of your relationship with the applicant? 
• Has the student demonstrated a willingness to take intellectual risks and go beyond the normal classroom experience?
• Does the applicant have any unusual competence, talent, or leadership abilities?
• What motivates this person? What excites him/her?
• How does the applicant interact with teachers? With peers? Describe his/her personality and social skills.
• What will you remember most about this person?
• Has the applicant ever experienced disappointment or failure? If so, how did he/she react?
• Are there any unusual family or community circumstances of which we should be aware?

Source: MIT Admissions

A recommender doesn't necessarily have to answer all of these questions, but they're great starting points for brainstorming. They shift the focus from what a student does to what a student is like, in terms of her intellectual curiosity, specific skills or talents, passions, and personality. Some other impressive qualities include communication skills, resourcefulness, and innovative problem-solving. Admissions committees often also look for demonstrated leadership and the ability to collaborate with others in an interactive and diverse environment.

Beyond these personal qualities, letter writers might speak to unusual circumstances or challenges that the student has faced or survived. These can be especially meaningful to explain a dip in academic performance or to show how a student has overcome hardship. I would advise getting the student's permission before including personal family information, just to make sure she's comfortable with you sharing it.

Finally, a recommender may want to demonstrate her own familiarity with the school to which the student is applying. If the school is particularly competitive, then you might express your confidence in the student's ability to thrive in an academically rigorous environment. If you're an alum of the school, then you can believably assert your confidence that the student would be a strong cultural fit. 

The strongest recommendation letters give insight into a student's intellectual orientation, motivations, and personal qualities. As a writer, how can you rave about your student in a sincere, genuine, and convincing way? One of the best ways to accomplish this is to focus your recommendation on the student's best assets.

Highlight your student's most important strengths.

Highlight the Most Important Themes

Just as you don't have to feel compelled to repeat every grade, club, and award on the student's resume, you also don't have to speak about every quality that makes the student great. In fact, well-rounded students aren't necessarily what the most competitive schools are looking for. While selective schools look for academic excellence in most subjects, what they really appreciate is a student's singular commitment to a specific and distinct area.

Developing a "big spike" in a certain area shows passion, dedication, and the ability to sustain long-term focus . As PrepScholar co-founder and Harvard alum Allen Cheng writes , top colleges are looking for students who are going to change the world. They're expecting deep achievement, and the best predictor of that is deep achievement in high school. Therefore admissions committees are especially impressed by a "huge spike" in science, writing, athletics, or whatever your commitment might be. 

Of course, not all or even the majority of students are applying to Ivy League schools, but the takeaway message still applies. Recommendation letters don't have to present the student as well-rounded and good at everything they do. Instead, they can paint a specific picture and highlight the qualities that are most important to understanding who the student is and what drives her actions.

Some letters may highlight that a student is a top scholar, while others may speak to a student's leadership skills. Some may focus in on the student's passion for volunteer work, or her talent in acting, art, music, or athletics. For students with extensive international experience, recommenders may rave about their multicultural, global perspective or unusual maturity and sophistication.

Other students may have had to overcome hardships in their life, and the recommender could speak to their resilience and strength as a survivor. As mentioned above, I would suggest discussing this kind of content with the student to make sure she's comfortable sharing it with admissions commitees. All in all, a recommender can brainstorm a list of the student's best assets (with the aid of the student's resume and " brag sheet "), and zero in on the most important themes.

What if the student hasn't demonstrated interest in a particular area, but you're excited to see her further explore her interests in college? In this case, you could write earnestly about the student's room to grow and the potential you see in her. At the same time, be careful with this kind of wording, as it may suggest different things to different admissions officers. If you really feel not able or qualified to provide the student with a recommendation that will help her admission chances, then you should  respectfully decline or suggest someone else better able to write her letter.

Once you've chosen the most important themes to highlight about a student, you can think about specific stories, experiences, or observations that demonstrate those strengths. The best recommendation letters "show," rather than just "tell."

Bring your letter to life with meaningful stories and examples.

Give Specific Examples

Which sentence paints a better picture in the mind of the reader?

a) Kate is a strong writer. b) Due to Kate's superlative writing and analytical skills, I'll be using her year-long thesis on representations of gender in  Jane Eyre as an example of the highest quality work to students in my future AP English classes.

The second uses more powerful words, but more importantly it gives a specific example , thereby proving that Kate has strong writing skills. It explains the grounds on which the teacher draws her conclusion that Kate is a good writer. It additionally suggests that Kate can sustain focus in a long-term project and impressed the teacher so much that her thesis became a model for future students.

The best recommendation letters support their praise of a student with specific anecdotes and observations. These stories accomplish a few things. One, they support the writer's claims. Rather than just listing adjectives, the writer backs up her description with examples.

Secondly, they make the letter more interesting and help the student come to life in the eyes of admissions officers. Officers may be up all night reading through applications. The last thing they want is a generic, boring recommendation letter that blends into all the others. Interesting stories make both the letter and the student pop .

Finally, the use of specific stories proves that the recommender is, in fact, qualified to assess the student. The best letters come from teachers who know a student well. Sharing anecdotes and observations prove that you've gotten to know the student thoroughly and your evaluation of her is trustworthy and reliable.

In addition to sharing examples, you should take the time to be intentional with your word choice. Consider which phrases and adjectives will present the clearest and strongest endorsement of the student.

Dance, words, dance!

Use Powerful Words 

As with any piece of writing, the best recommendation letters are eloquent, clear, and don't fall into the trap of cliches. Calling someone a go-getter with a heart of gold who leaves no stone unturned and is a friend to all may elicit a yawn or eye roll from the admissions officer. 

Often finding just the right word happens in the revision stage. Check if you wrote interesting when creative or innovative would work better. Keep an eye out for nice when you meant to dive into a student's unique empathy or compassion for others. Perhaps you wrote hard worker when intellectual risk-taker would more accurately describe the student.

Some words and phrases that can be used to described a student's academic strengths include  insightful, analytical, curious, observant, innovative, or mastery of a specific subject area.  Others that fall more in the arena of personal and professional strengths include  mature, flexible, generous, empathetic, leader, versatile, ethical, motivated, ambitious, resourceful , and strong communication skills.

Admissions officers have read hundreds, if not thousands, of recommendation letters, and they're used to reading between the lines. Be intentional with your wording so you don't accidentally communicate something negative about the student. For instance, a phrase like " leads by example " or " excels at working independently " could indicate that the student keeps to herself and has trouble working with others.

While it's more important to be authentic and not worry too much about what an admissions officer may or may not think, this mindset can help you be purposeful with what you say and how you say it in your letter. You can also keep an eye out for sounding over the top with your phrase. While the best letters rave about their students, they have the examples to back up their praise. Simply listing superlative adjectives could come off as overblown and insincere.

A second technique that may impress admissions officers is the use of a high ranking. 

Rank the Student Highly, When Appropriate

Consider these ranking statements:

Carla is the most talented and driven math student I have taught in my twenty years at High School High. James is one of the top three students I have ever had the pleasure of teaching.

An impressive ranking, like the two above, certainly communicates a strong vote of confidence in a student , especially if it comes from a teacher with hundreds of students to compare her recommendee to. If your student is applying to a selective or Ivy League school, then a powerful ranking can go a long way toward testifying to a student's outstanding achievement and qualities.

On the other hand, a ranking like "above average" or "relatively strong effort compared to her peers" may do more harm than good. If you can genuinely provide a statement of high ranking, then you can help the student by including it. If not, then it's probably advisable to leave that kind of statement out of your letter. 

Apart from a statement of ranking, there are a few other key components to include in your letter of recommendation. While you can be creative and customize your letters to each student, there are a few essential pieces of information that you should include in all your letters.

Include all essential elements.

State All Essential Information

There are a few necessary pieces of information to include in all recommendation letters that I touched on briefly at the beginning of this article. The first is an explicit statement of who you're recommending. If you can customize your letter for each college, all the better. Second, you should state who you are , your position at the school, and the contexts in which you've gotten to know the applicant. 

If you've gotten to know the student both in class for a year and as editor of the school newspaper, then this shows you've taught and supervised her in different contexts and are especially qualified to evaluate her. Admissions officers usually prefer recommendations from junior year teachers , as they had the student recently and for a whole year. A senior year teacher probably doesn't know the student very well yet, and sophomore and freshman year was too far in the past. Exceptions to this general rule include having the student for more than one year or supervising her in other capacities, like clubs or sports. 

You can begin the letter with a creative or catchy hook, or a more straightforward statement of endorsement, as long as you include these key components in the introduction. Here are a few examples.

It is my great pleasure to provide this recommendation for Kate, who I enjoyed teaching and getting to know as her 11th grade AP U.S. History teacher.

I have known Joe since 2012 in my position as Lincoln High School's Biology teacher.

I am delighted to write this recommendation for Rosa, whom I have known for two years as her Psychology teacher and academic advisor.

Please accept this letter as my enthusiastic endorsement of Chris, the top student in my 11th grade AP Chemistry class.

After introducing the student, your relationship with her, and your statement of recommendation, you can go on to provide your evaluation, while keeping in mind the above mentioned suggestions, like focusing on important themes and using specific stories, powerful language, and a statement of ranking. If you want to balance out your recommendation by presenting a weakness, I would suggest doing so in a mild way, perhaps with an explanation of how that weakness could be turned into a strength. 

In your letter's conclusion, it's a good idea to restate your support for the student, while also talking about how you envision the student being successful at college . Admissions officers want to build a strong, dynamic, and diverse class with a range of abilities and interests. By attesting to the student's potential for future success and contributions at campus, you can reassure admissions officers that she is a student they want at their school.

Finally, you can conclude your letter with your contact information and an invitation to call or email you with any further questions . Use an official letterhead, and welcome them to get in touch for any further discussion of the student.

To sum up, let's go over the do's and don't's of writing recommendation letters for students applying to college.

Key Points to Remember

• Include key content, like who you're recommending, who you are, how you know the student, and what makes you qualified to evaluate her.
• Be enthusiastic in your recommendation, discussing both a student's academic ability and potential and her character and personality.
• Highlight a few key qualities that you think are essential for admissions officers to understand who the student is and what she can accomplish.
• Use specific stories, examples, and anecdotes to support your evaluation.
• Be intentional in your word choice, making sure to powerful words and phrases and to avoid cliches.
• Provide a high and impressive ranking , when applicable.
• Conclude with a strong statement of support, vision of the student's future success , and invitation to the admissions committee to follow up with you if need be.
• Simply repeat resume points or quantitative data that are already listed on other parts of the application.
• Cast too wide a net and end up saying very little, because you tried to say too much.
• List adjectives without having examples to back them up.
• Use generic , bland, unenthusiastic language or cliche statements.
• Use similar letters for more than one student, especially if the students are applying to the same schools (the same admissions officers will see this!)
• Agree to provide a letter of recommendation unless you can honestly recommend a student.

Finally, not all students develop strong connections with their teachers, perhaps because they have trouble participating in class or their school has a large teacher to student ratio. To help you write your recommendation, students may provide a "brag sheet," where they talk about their goals and what's important to them, as well as a resume. If you need more information or time to talk to the student, it can help to meet with her and have a conversation or two. I always found the easiest letters to write were for students who were open and eager to share their plans and personality.

If you feel you haven't gotten to know a student as well as you need to to write a compelling and insightful letter, then it may help to elicit her thoughts and feelings, as well as make time to get to know her better. As long as you have the raw materials, in terms of a good relationship, stories, and observations, then you can use these suggestions and examples to craft a thoughtful, customized letter of recommendation that will help her get into college.

As you write, remember your mission: to differentiate the student as a unique and impressive candidate, to shed light on both her intellectual and personal qualities, and to give admissions officers a holistic view of the person that will show up on campus in next year's class.

What's Next?

Some of the most helpful resources for me as I wrote recommendation letters for students were examples of great and bad letters. Check back soon for our articles with great letters , bad letters , and a suggested recommendation letter template .

While recommendation letters are important for all schools, they must be especially outstanding to help a student get into the Ivy League. Check out our complete guide to Harvard recommendation letters . 

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Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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How to Make a Resume for College Recommendation Letters

A college recommendation letter can be considered an important deciding factor between two candidates applying for the same job. A copy of your resume to write your college recommendation letter must be given to someone who actually writes these letters. Even people who know you since long time may not know about all your achievements. A resume can give information about your education, work, experiences, skills, interests and many other important things. Using the details from your resume into the recommendation letter will give an impression of how well the recommender knows you.

1. Every detail about your grades, volunteer opportunities, work background, sports awards and leadership accomplishments will be useful for the person who writes your college recommendation letter . The letter-writer should describe how well-rounded you are. Your resume gives the necessary information, thus the letter will focus more on your qualifications.

2. Open a resume template in Microsoft Word. Click on the “File” in the menu and click on the “New” button. After opening the “New Document” task panel under “Templates,” click on the “Templates on Office Online” button and select a resume. The template will help organize the necessary information from your resume in a logical, easy to understand sequence. This allows the individual writing your college recommendation letter better idea about your qualifications.

3. Include must include your personal information like your name, address, phone number and email address at the top on the first page of your resume. Do not include personal information such as marital status, age, religion and political affiliation.

4. Give complete idea about your educational background, mentioning the most recent education first. Also give information regarding the name and location of your school, major fields of study, your cumulative GPA and expected date of graduation.

5. List every academic award and achievement earned by you. You must necessarily include all your academic achievements that deserve recognition. All this data will equip the writer with more information about you to write your college recommendation letter. All the extracurricular activities like high school sports, clubs and leadership activities must be mentioned in your resume. Also write about the activities that show your interests which are relevant to the college. An effective letter is the one which highlights the qualities which set you apart from others. Colleges like academically inclined students but appreciate the all-rounder students.

6. Give details about your employment, with the latest jobs and internships listed first. Mention about your positions, employers, the period of your employment and a short summary of your job responsibilities. This information will give the writer an idea about your work ethic. Your employment might even justify any poor academic performance as it is understood that you got limited time to study. The writer can use this to explain why you previously didn’t do well academically but will surely excel in future.

7. Write everything about your skills, abilities and interests. You can add your technical and computer skills, expertise in a foreign language, in any. Knowledge about a foreign language would show your ability to excel in college. A personalized recommendation letter is more valuable than the one written without knowing the person being recommended.

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College Recommendation Letter: A Guide to Crafting a Stellar Recommendation {Samples Included}

Are you in a position where you need to write a college recommendation letter? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Crafting a compelling and impactful recommendation letter is crucial for helping students stand out in the competitive college admissions process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of writing an outstanding college recommendation letter. Whether you’re a teacher, counselor, employer, or mentor, this article will equip you with the expertise to create a letter that truly shines.

1. Introduction

The college application process can be daunting for students, and a well-crafted recommendation letter can make all the difference. A strong recommendation letter provides insight into the student’s character, achievements, and potential for success in higher education. Admissions officers rely on these letters to gain a deeper understanding of an applicant beyond their grades and test scores.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing a college recommendation letter that leaves a lasting impression. We’ll explore the structure, dos and don’ts, and frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the necessary tools to write an exceptional letter.

2. What is a College Recommendation Letter?

A college recommendation letter, also known as a reference letter, is a document written by an individual who knows the student well and can vouch for their skills, character, and potential. This letter aims to provide an external perspective on the student’s qualifications and suitability for admission to a college or university.

College recommendation letters are typically written by teachers, counselors, employers, or mentors who have had a significant relationship with the student. These letters help colleges assess the applicant’s academic abilities, leadership skills, work ethic, and personal qualities that would contribute to the campus community.

3. The Importance of College Recommendation Letters

College recommendation letters play a vital role in the admissions process. Admissions officers review hundreds, if not thousands, of applications each year, and recommendation letters provide a valuable perspective that goes beyond test scores and transcripts. These letters provide insights into a student’s character, work ethic, and potential for success in college.

When a recommendation letter is well-written and genuine, it can significantly impact an applicant’s chances of admission. A compelling letter can help an admissions officer understand how the student stands out from their peers and why they would be a valuable addition to the college community.

4. How to Get Started

Before diving into the writing process, it’s important to gather all the necessary information and set the right tone for the letter. Here are some key steps to help you get started:

4.1 Gathering Relevant Information

To write an effective college recommendation letter, you’ll need to gather relevant information about the student. This includes their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and any notable accomplishments. Request the student’s resume or provide them with a questionnaire to gather the necessary details.

4.2 Understanding the Purpose of the Letter

Understanding the purpose of the letter is crucial to tailor it to the specific college or university. Research the institution’s values, mission statement, and academic programs to highlight the student’s qualities and achievements that align with their goals.

4.3 Setting a Positive Tone

A positive and enthusiastic tone can make a recommendation letter more engaging and impactful. Express your genuine admiration for the student and their accomplishments. However, it’s important to strike a balance and remain sincere and realistic throughout the letter.

5. Structure and Format of a College Recommendation Letter

A well-structured and properly formatted college recommendation letter is easier to read and leaves a positive impression on the reader. Let’s explore the recommended structure for a college recommendation letter:

5.1 Introduction

The introduction sets the tone for the rest of the letter and should be attention-grabbing. Start by mentioning your relationship with the student and how long you have known them. State your qualifications and expertise in the field, as it adds credibility to your endorsement.

5.2 Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs provide an opportunity to showcase the student’s strengths, achievements, and personal qualities. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or characteristic of the student, supported by concrete examples and anecdotes. Use this section to highlight the student’s academic performance, leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth.

5.3 Conclusion

The conclusion summarizes the main points of the letter and reaffirms your recommendation. Express your confidence in the student’s abilities and their potential to succeed in college. Provide your contact information should the admissions officer have any further questions.

6. Writing the College Recommendation Letter

Now that we’ve covered the structure and format, let’s dive into the content of the college recommendation letter. Here are some key elements to consider while writing:

6.1 Showcasing the Student’s Strengths and Achievements

Highlight the student’s academic achievements, such as high grades, rigorous coursework, and academic awards. Emphasize their unique strengths and skills that set them apart from their peers. Provide specific examples to illustrate their accomplishments and substantiate your claims.

6.2 Providing Specific Examples and Anecdotes

Concrete examples and anecdotes make the recommendation letter more vivid and memorable. Share specific instances where the student demonstrated exceptional qualities, such as leadership, problem-solving, or creativity. These stories bring the student’s character to life and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

6.3 Highlighting Personal Growth and Character Development

Colleges seek students who not only excel academically but also exhibit personal growth and character development. Discuss how the student has grown during their time under your guidance. Highlight instances where they have overcome challenges, displayed resilience, or shown a commitment to self-improvement.

6.4 Comparing the Student to Peers

Providing a comparative analysis can help admissions officers understand the student’s standing among their peers. Compare the student’s abilities, achievements, and potential to others you have encountered in your role. This comparison can give valuable context and highlight the student’s exceptional qualities.

6.5 Addressing Any Weaknesses or Challenges

While it’s essential to focus on the student’s strengths, it’s also important to address any weaknesses or challenges they may have faced. Be honest and tactful while discussing these aspects, emphasizing how the student has worked to overcome them and grow from the experience.

7. Dos and Don’ts of College Recommendation Letters

To ensure your college recommendation letter has the desired impact, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

• Do Be Honest and Sincere: Admissions officers value authenticity, so it’s crucial to be honest and sincere in your letter. Avoid exaggerations or misrepresentations.
• Do Tailor the Letter to the Student and College: Customize the letter for each student and college, highlighting their unique qualities and achievements that align with the institution’s values.
• Do Use Specific and Concrete Language: Employ vivid and descriptive language to paint a clear picture of the student’s abilities and accomplishments. Avoid generic or vague statements.
• Do Proofread and Edit: Ensure that your letter is error-free and well-polished. Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. Consider seeking feedback from colleagues or mentors.

7.2 Don’ts:

• Don’t Include Generic or Vague Statements: Generic statements without specific examples can weaken the impact of your recommendation. Be precise and provide evidence to support your claims.
• Don’t Exaggerate or Misrepresent the Student’s Abilities: While it’s important to highlight the student’s strengths, avoid embellishing or misrepresenting their abilities. Admissions officers can recognize insincere recommendations.
• Don’t Use Negative Language or Criticize the Student: Maintain a positive and supportive tone throughout the letter. Avoid using negative language or criticizing the student’s weaknesses.
• Don’t Rely Solely on Adjectives: While using adjectives can be useful to describe the student’s qualities, ensure they are supported by concrete examples and anecdotes.

College Recommendation Letter Samples

College Recommendation Letter Sample 1: Academic Recommendation Letter

Dear [Admissions Committee],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to [College/University Name]. I have had the pleasure of teaching and mentoring [Student’s Pronoun] for the past [number] years at [High School/Institution], where [Student’s Pronoun] has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic prowess and remarkable dedication to intellectual pursuits.

In my [subject] class, [Student’s Pronoun] consistently stood out as one of the top performers. [He/She] possesses a keen analytical mind and a strong aptitude for critical thinking. [His/Her] insightful contributions to classroom discussions and [his/her] ability to ask thought-provoking questions have enriched the learning experience for both [his/her] peers and me.

Apart from [his/her] outstanding academic achievements, [Student’s Full Name] has also exhibited exceptional leadership qualities. [He/She] took the initiative to establish and lead the school’s Science Club, organizing various scientific experiments and presentations. [His/Her] passion for science is infectious, and [he/she] has inspired many students to pursue careers in STEM fields.

In addition to [his/her] impressive academic and leadership abilities, [Student’s Full Name] is an individual of impeccable character. [He/She] consistently displays integrity, kindness, and a strong work ethic. [Student’s Pronoun] is highly respected by both [his/her] peers and teachers for [his/her] positive attitude and willingness to go above and beyond to help others.

Based on my experience working with [Student’s Full Name], I have no doubt that [he/she] has the intellectual curiosity, determination, and resilience required to thrive in [College/University Name]. [He/She] has consistently demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and a genuine passion for [his/her] chosen field of study, [mention field].

I wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to [College/University Name] without reservation. [He/She] is an exceptional student and an individual of utmost integrity, and I am confident that [he/she] will contribute positively to the academic and social fabric of your esteemed institution.

Please feel free to contact me at [email/phone number] if you require any further information regarding [Student’s Full Name]. Thank you for considering [his/her] application. I am certain that [he/she] will excel and make significant contributions to [College/University Name].

[Your Name] [Your Title/Position] [Your Institution/Organization]

College Recommendation Letter Sample 2: Extracurricular Recommendation Letter

I am thrilled to recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to [College/University Name]. I have had the pleasure of working closely with [him/her] as [his/her] advisor for the past [number] years at [High School/Institution], where [he/she] has consistently demonstrated remarkable leadership, dedication, and passion for extracurricular activities.

[Student’s Full Name] has been an invaluable member of our school’s Debate Club since [year]. As the club president, [he/she] has not only led the team to numerous victories in local and regional competitions but has also fostered a supportive and inclusive environment for all members. [His/Her] ability to analyze complex issues, articulate [his/her] thoughts persuasively, and think on [his/her] feet make [him/her] an exceptional debater.

Beyond [his/her] involvement in the Debate Club, [Student’s Full Name] has also made significant contributions to our community through [his/her] volunteer work. [He/She] has been actively involved in [mention specific volunteer organization or project], where [he/she] has consistently demonstrated [his/her] compassion, empathy, and dedication to helping others. [His/Her] commitment to service is truly inspiring.

Aside from [his/her] outstanding achievements, [Student’s Full Name] possesses a remarkable ability to work collaboratively with peers and mentors. [He/She] is an excellent team player who actively listens to others’ perspectives and values diverse opinions. [His/Her] exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to motivate others have been instrumental in driving the success of various projects and initiatives.

Based on [Student’s Full Name]’s exceptional leadership qualities, dedication, and commitment to extracurricular activities, I am confident that [he/she] will continue to make a significant impact in [College/University Name]’s vibrant extracurricular community. [He/She] has a rare combination of intellect, passion, and the ability to inspire others, making [him/her] an ideal candidate for admission.

I wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to [College/University Name]. [He/She] possesses the qualities and potential to excel not only academically but also as a valuable member of your college community. Please feel free to reach out to me at [email/phone number] if you require any additional information about [Student’s Full Name].

Thank you for considering [his/her] application. I have no doubt that [Student’s Full Name] will make a significant positive impact during [his/her] time at [College/University Name].

College Recommendation Letter Sample 3: Personal Character Recommendation Letter

I am honored to write this recommendation letter for [Student’s Full Name], a truly exceptional individual who has had a profound impact on our school community. As [his/her] [relationship to the student], I have had the privilege of witnessing [Student’s Pronoun] growth, resilience, and unwavering commitment to personal and academic excellence.

[Student’s Full Name] is an individual of remarkable character and integrity. [He/She] consistently demonstrates a strong sense of empathy, compassion, and respect for others. [His/Her] genuine kindness and willingness to help those in need have made [him/her] an invaluable member of our school community.

In addition to [his/her] outstanding personal qualities, [Student’s Full Name] has shown exemplary leadership skills. [He/She] has taken on various leadership roles, such as [mention specific roles], where [he/she] has demonstrated exceptional organizational abilities, effective communication, and the ability to motivate and inspire others. [His/Her] leadership style is inclusive, collaborative, and focused on achieving collective goals.

Moreover, [Student’s Full Name] possesses remarkable resilience and the ability to overcome challenges. [He/She] has faced difficult situations with grace and determination, and [his/her] ability to bounce back from setbacks has been truly inspiring. [Student’s Full Name] approaches challenges with a positive mindset and uses them as opportunities for growth and personal development.

Based on [his/her] exceptional personal character, leadership qualities, and resilience, I wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to [College/University Name]. [He/She] is not only academically capable but also possesses the qualities of a responsible and compassionate global citizen.

Please feel free to contact me at [email/phone number] if you require any additional information regarding [Student’s Full Name]. Thank you for considering [his/her] application. I am confident that [he/she] will thrive and make significant contributions to the vibrant community at [College/University Name].

College Recommendation Letter Sample 4: Research Recommendation Letter

I am delighted to write this recommendation letter for [Student’s Full Name], an outstanding young researcher with an insatiable curiosity and exceptional dedication to scientific inquiry. As [his/her] research advisor at [High School/Institution], I have had the pleasure of mentoring [Student’s Pronoun] for the past [number] years.

[Student’s Full Name] has a true passion for research, and [he/she] has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to think critically, formulate hypotheses, and design rigorous experiments. [His/Her] commitment to scientific inquiry is unparalleled, and [he/she] exhibits the qualities of a driven and talented scientist.

During [his/her] time as a researcher in my lab, [Student’s Full Name] has made significant contributions to [mention specific research project(s)]. [His/Her] attention to detail, analytical skills, and ability to troubleshoot have been instrumental in the success of the project. [He/She] has a natural ability to navigate complex scientific concepts and effectively communicate [his/her] findings.

Apart from [his/her] exceptional research skills, [Student’s Full Name] possesses exceptional time management and organizational abilities. [He/She] has consistently demonstrated the capacity to handle multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining a high standard of work. [His/Her] ability to work independently and collaboratively has been invaluable in our research environment.

Based on [his/her] outstanding research abilities, intellectual curiosity, and dedication, I have no doubt that [Student’s Full Name] is well-suited for [College/University Name]’s rigorous research programs. [He/She] has the potential to make significant contributions to the scientific community and push the boundaries of knowledge in [mention field].

I wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to [College/University Name]. [He/She] possesses the intellectual prowess, research skills, and passion necessary to excel in the demanding research environment at your esteemed institution. Please feel free to contact me at [email/phone number] if you require any further information about [Student’s Full Name].

Thank you for considering [his/her] application. I am confident that [Student’s Full Name] will thrive and make significant contributions to the scientific community at [College/University Name].

College Recommendation Letter Sample 5: Artistic Recommendation Letter

It is with great pleasure that I write this recommendation letter for [Student’s Full Name], an exceptionally talented artist whose creativity and artistic vision never cease to amaze me. As [his/her] [relationship to the student], I have had the privilege of witnessing [Student’s Pronoun] artistic journey and growth over the past [number] years.

[Student’s Full Name] is a truly gifted artist who possesses a unique ability to convey emotions and tell stories through [his/her] chosen medium. [His/Her] artistic style is not only visually captivating but also thought-provoking and deeply evocative. [He/She] has an innate talent for capturing the essence of [his/her] subjects and infusing [his/her] artwork with a sense of authenticity and depth.

Throughout [his/her] time at [High School/Institution], [Student’s Full Name] has consistently pushed the boundaries of [his/her] artistic abilities and explored new techniques and mediums. [He/She] has an insatiable thirst for knowledge and actively seeks out opportunities to learn from other artists and engage with the art community. [His/Her] passion for art is infectious and serves as an inspiration to [his/her] peers.

In addition to [his/her] exceptional artistic skills, [Student’s Full Name] is also a diligent and dedicated student. [He/She] approaches [his/her] art with discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. [His/Her] commitment to honing [his/her] craft is evident in the quality and depth of [his/her] portfolio.

Based on [his/her] exceptional artistic talent, creativity, and dedication, I wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to [College/University Name]’s esteemed [mention art program]. [He/She] has the potential to flourish in an environment that fosters artistic growth and provides opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations.

Please feel free to contact me at [email/phone number] if you require any further information regarding [Student’s Full Name]. Thank you for considering [his/her] application. I am confident that [Student’s Full Name] will make significant contributions to the vibrant artistic community at [College/University Name].

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. how long should a college recommendation letter be.

A college recommendation letter should typically be around 400-500 words, which is roughly one to two pages. However, it’s important to check the specific guidelines provided by the college or university, as they may have specific requirements.

2. Can I include personal anecdotes in the letter?

Yes, personal anecdotes can make the recommendation letter more engaging and provide a deeper insight into the student’s character. However, ensure that the anecdotes are relevant and highlight the student’s positive qualities.

3. Should I address any weaknesses or challenges the student has faced?

Addressing weaknesses or challenges can be beneficial, as long as you approach them in a constructive and supportive manner. Highlight how the student has grown and learned from these experiences, emphasizing their resilience and determination.

4. Can I write a recommendation letter if I don’t know the student well?

It is generally recommended to write a recommendation letter only if you have a significant and meaningful relationship with the student. If you don’t know the student well, it may be best to decline the request or suggest that they seek a letter from someone who can provide a more comprehensive assessment.

5. How many recommendation letters should a student submit?

The number of recommendation letters required varies from college to college. Generally, colleges ask for two to three recommendation letters. However, it’s crucial to review the specific requirements of each college the student is applying to.

6. Is it necessary to follow a specific format for the recommendation letter?

While there is no rigid format for a college recommendation letter, it’s important to maintain a professional tone and adhere to proper grammar and punctuation. Follow the structure outlined earlier in this article and ensure that the letter flows logically and cohesively.

9. Conclusion

Crafting a compelling college recommendation letter is an invaluable way to support and advocate for a student’s college aspirations. By showcasing their strengths, achievements, and personal qualities, you can help admissions officers gain a deeper understanding of the student’s potential.

Remember to be sincere, use specific examples, and tailor the letter to the student and college. Follow the recommended structure and format, and avoid common pitfalls such as generic statements and negative language.

With this guide, you’re equipped with the knowledge and expertise to write an outstanding college recommendation letter that will leave a lasting impression on admissions officers. Your recommendation can make a significant difference in a student’s college journey.

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How to Write a Letter of Recommendation [With Tips & Template]

Every now and then, applying for a position will require that you also submit a letter of recommendation. 

Or, maybe, a coworker will ask you to write a recommendation letter for their new job application.

If you're not certain how to go about it, don't worry - nothing about recommendation letters needs to be complicated. Especially once you learn the nitty-gritty of the topic. 

This is exactly what this article is here to teach you!

What is a Recommendation Letter?

What should a letter of recommendation include.

• How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

3 Types of Recommendation Letters

• How to Ask For a Recommendation Letter
• Recommendation Letter Template

A letter of recommendation is a formal document confirming and recommending a person’s work, skills, or academic performance and potential. 

Typically, a recommendation letter is required for: 

• University admissions
• Fellowships or internship positions
• Job applications
• Volunteering opportunities

You should ideally write a recommendation for someone whose abilities and work ethic you are familiar with - for example, a colleague, student you taught, your employee, or someone you supervised at work.

Similarly, if you’re the one asking for a recommendation letter, you should ask someone who can attest to your professional or academic abilities. 

The types of recommendation letters are:

• Academic recommendation letters.
• Employment recommendation letters.
• Character recommendation letters.

Here’s what each type of recommendation letter is about:

#1. Academic Recommendation Letters

Academic recommendation letters are typically required to be submitted by students during the admission processes of graduate and undergraduate schools. 

Generally, each prospective student is requested to submit up to three references, which can be written by any education professional familiar with the candidate’s academic background. 

Academic reference letters include:

• Recommendation letter for undergraduate/graduate school
• Recommendation letter for a scholarship
• Recommendation letter for a fellowship program

#2. Employment recommendation letters 

This type makes up the most popular type of recommendation letter.

Sometimes, employers can ask you to submit up to 3 recommendation letters as part of your job application.

More often, though, a recruiter might ask you for recommendation letters if they already like your resume and want to learn more about you. 

Employment recommendation letters are written by former - or current - coworkers, employers, or supervisors.

If you can choose, pick someone with more years of experience than you. After all, the more senior they are, the more weight their recommendation carries.

Employment recommendations include: 

• Recommendation letter for a coworker
• Recommendation letter for a (former) employee

#3. Character recommendation letters

Character recommendation letters, also known as personal references, are used to describe an individual’s personality by someone who knows them well, including close friends, coworkers, or employers. 

Personal references serve many purposes, the primary ones being court cases dealing with criminal issues such as drunk driving offenses, or legal situations such as child adoption procedures. 

It is not uncommon, however, to have a potential landlord or even immigration officials ask for a personal reference. 

Personal references include: 

• Recommendation letter for a friend
• Recommendation letter for a tenant
• Recommendation letter for a patient

Recommendation letters follow a particular format and layout that make writing them significantly easier. 

In this section, we’ll cover how to do each the right way, starting with:

Letter of Recommendation Format

A letter of recommendation includes the following sections: 

• The salutation ; if you are addressing someone whose name you know or writing a personal recommendation letter, the salutation can be addressed to “Dear Mr./Mrs./Dr. Smith.” Otherwise, you may use the generic “to whom it may concern.”
• The introduction , which first and foremost includes your statement of recommendation (i.e. “ it is my pleasure to recommend… ”). It is common to also briefly state who you are and what your expertise is.
• The overview, or a description of the applicant’s top skills, attributes, and strengths.
• A personal story describing more of the applicant’s skills and qualifications.
• The closing statement , or the final call for action, is where you encourage the recruiter to contact you if additional information is needed.
• The signature , where you repeat your name and include your full contact information.

Letter of Recommendation Layout 

When it comes to the layout of the recommendation letter, all you need to do is follow some basic formatting rules. Here are the most important ones: 

#1. One page length. This rule applies to resumes too, but it’s even more essential for the recommendation letter. Recruiters go through hundreds of them, so chances are they appreciate concise, to-the-point letters that don’t waste their time. And besides, a good recommendation letter doesn’t have to be an essay to get the recruiter ‘hooked’ - especially if you follow the above format. 

#2. Single-spaced lining, with space between paragraphs . This also keeps your reference letter within the limit by shortening the text. 

#3. Traditional font. Don’t go for something too creative - pick a classic that works. We recommend Times New Roman, Calibri, Arial, Ubuntu, Roboto or Overpass.

#4. 1” margins on all sides . This creates enough white space around the margins and makes the letter easy to read. Additionally, the text should be aligned to the left - although this is a standard alignment for most documents.    

#5. 10-12pt font size . This is the font size range that makes the document easy to read. Adjusting the font size is another good way to keep your recommendation letter within the length limit.

Recommendation letters usually follow similar layout rules as resumes. Learn more about font size and style from our article on the best resume font, size, and format . 

Recommendation Letter Template 

Struggling to write a recommendation letter? 

Just follow our tried-and-tested template! 

To whom it may concern: 

[Recommend the referee for the position they are applying for.]

[Briefly introduce yourself and state your position/ job title , as well as your work experience .]

[Tell how you know the referee and describe their top skills, qualifications, and strengths.]

[Share a personal story with the referee where you highlight their strong points and key achievements .]

[Add a few more of the applicant’s skills and positive traits, preferably fitting the job description.]

[Show your availability to provide additional information for the referee if needed.]

Best Regards

[Your full signature and contact information]

How to Ask for a Recommendation Letter 

Need to ask someone for a recommendation letter? Here’s what you need to know.

The go-to person for your recommendation letter will depend on the type of reference you’ll need. 

For example, if you need an employment recommendation letter , your top choices should involve people who are familiar with your work ethic and professional abilities, but with whom you’ve also had a positive professional relationship. For example:

• Your team lead
• Department head
• CEO of the company
• Direct manager
• A coworker you’ve worked with together on a project

If you are a recent graduate with little work experience, you can ask a mentor or college professor to write you a professional reference. 

In case you need an academic recommendation letter , consider asking a professor with whom you’ve worked closely and can positively attest to your academic potential and achievements.

Your thesis advisor, for example, would make a good choice to ask for an academic reference. If you never wrote a Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis, any professor who knows you as more than just a face in a sea of students should do the trick. 

Finally, keep the following in mind when the time comes to ask for a recommendation letter: 

• Whoever you end up asking, talk to them about it in advance . Then, follow up with a formal email that should contain all reference-related information, such as the submission details and deadline. The email can also include a description of what you’re currently doing (professionally, academically, or independently), what qualifies you for the position, and some relevant skills, achievements, or noteworthy facts.
• If you’re asking for a professional recommendation letter, make sure to also include your resume and the job description in the follow-up email. This way, the person writing the letter will know more about you and your new position and will be able to write a more relevant recommendation by tailoring your skills to the job, or by mentioning some of your (relevant) achievements.
• Notify the contacts you’ll be asking - considering that in most cases recruiters ask for up to three recommendation letters - at least two weeks in advance. This will give them enough time to prepare and write a good recommendation letter. This is especially important for academic references because professors are usually writing several recommendation letters simultaneously.
• Consider attaching a recommendation letter template such as the one provided in this article to your email. The template will considerably ease or guide them through the process of writing the letter.
• Follow up by sending thank you notes to everyone who writes you a recommendation letter. Sending a letter of appreciation is a courtesy act that will let them know you are grateful for the time and effort they took to recommend you positively.

If you’re also looking to update your resume or create one, head over to our guide on how to write a resume in 2024 !

5 Tips on How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

There’s more to writing a recommendation letter than just following the layout instructions or sticking to the format.

We’re referring to content quality, which happens to be the trickiest part of the process. 

In this section, we’ll teach you how to write a recommendation letter that will impress the recruiter and help your referee!

Tip #1. Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction  

First things first - the introduction.

This is where you need to grab the reader’s attention and get them interested in reading the recommendation letter. 

How to go about it? Before formally (and briefly) introducing yourself, aim to write an attention-grabbing recommendation statement, instead of a generic one the recruiter probably knows by heart already. 

Let’s explain this more practically: 

Dear Mr. Smith, 

I am pleased to recommend Sarah McKay for the Communications Assistant position.

Nothing wrong with this introduction at first glance, right? It’s a standard way of opening a recommendation letter after all. 

Well that’s exactly what’s wrong with it - it’s way too common. No, this probably won’t get your application disqualified, but it won’t impress the recruiter either.

Want yours to strike the right note? Try something like this instead:

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am sincerely glad to be the one recommending Sarah McKay for the Communications Assistant position.

This recommendation statement is not significantly different from the previous one, except for one thing: it gives the reference letter a head start by implying that recommending Sarah is an honor. And that’s more likely to get the recruiter’s attention - or, at least, curiosity. 

In case you’re struggling to come up with an attention-grabbing introduction, simply mention one of the following points, and you’re good to go: 

• A little-known fact about the candidate. 
• Your general consideration of the candidate’s qualities.
• A remarkable achievement or award the candidate might have won.  

Tip #2. Establish a Meaningful Relationship With the Candidate 

All recommendation letters explain what the relationship with the referee is before listing their skills and qualifications. 

To make the recommendation more meaningful, you should show the recruiter you are just the right person to attest to the candidate’s abilities. And that’s not something you can convey by simply stating how you know them. Take the following example:   

I have taught Jake Political Science for four years. 

Does this example tell the recruiter how you know the applicant? Sure, it does. 

But it does so in a boring way and without establishing a convincing relationship with them. For all the recruiter knows, Jake is just one out of a thousand students you’ve taught over the years.

It has been a pleasure for me to teach Jake for four years and guide him through his remarkable Bachelor’s thesis in Conflict Resolution.

Notice the difference? This example specifies the writer is Jake’s thesis advisor, which makes the recommendation all the more meaningful. 

Tip #3. Tailor Your Recommendation to the Application 

Want to put in the extra effort and make sure your referee truly stands out?

Tailor the recommendation letter to the job / university program they’re applying for.

Tailoring your letter to the candidate’s application is easiest when you’re recommending someone for employment (you can just check the job requirements), but it works for any type of recommendation (incl. academic). All you need to do is match the referee’s skills and strengths to whatever they’re applying for. 

Let’s assume, for example, that you’re recommending a co-worker for a marketing manager position.

Some of the job requirements are: 

• +5 years of professional experience in marketing
• Experience developing marketing campaigns 
• Excellent communication skills 
• Project-management and multi-tasking skills 

To tailor your recommendation to the job requirements, all you need to do is mention them as your referee’s best qualities. For example: 

Even after seven years working together, Ema’s skillful way of effectively communicating with clients and co-workers alike doesn’t cease to amaze me. It only comes second to her multi-tasking abilities, which I’ve witnessed throughout the many marketing campaigns we have developed and managed. 

As you can see, there’s not much to it. 

All you need to do is check the job requirements, pick several skills and qualifications, and make them part of your referee’s top skills, strengths, or personality traits.  

Tip #4. List the Candidate’s Achievements 

Mentioning some of the candidate’s achievements is another great way to help your referee really stand out.

After all, skills, strengths, and character traits are awesome, but they can also come across as meaningless if you can’t back them up with facts. 

What do we mean by this?

Let us explain:

Here’s how a typical personal story in a recommendation letter looks like:

I came to truly appreciate Eric’s work ethic, passion, and attention to detail the first time I assigned him to do a report on child trafficking. Eric was respectful of journalistic ethics but also willing to chase the story relentlessly, believing in its value and importance. 

Sure, this is a perfectly acceptable personal story. 

However, it doesn’t do much more than just list the referee’s skills, traits, and work experience through a subjective lens. 

What we’re saying is, it doesn’t really sell the candidate.

Now, let’s compare it to the following:

Eric’s ability to chase after difficult stories first became apparent when I assigned him a report about child trafficking. Despite the challenging topic, Eric not only pulled through but achieved more than expected by a) identifying a trafficking ring that put more than 50 minors into forced begging, b) interviewing 10 of the older minors and managing to bring that trafficking network down once the reportage went public and c) increasing the TV Channel’s ratings by 40% in 3 weeks. 

By mentioning those achievements, your account of the candidate’s experiences is a lot more “factual,” as well as impressive for the recruiter.

Not sure which achievements to include? Check out these 101+ achievements to list on your resum e !

Tip #5. Polish Up Your Recommendation Letter

Finally, here’s 5 more simple tips to get your recommendation letter ready:

• Maintain positive rhetoric . At no point throughout your reference letter should the recruiter sense a hint of doubt regarding the applicant’s skills and qualifications.
• Don’t overdo the positivity. Extremes are never good - which means being overly positive might also come across as a bit suspicious or weird (even if everything you're saying is true). 
• Follow the submission instructions . A bunch of employers, but also educational institutions, will provide instructions on how to submit the recommendation letter. We recommend you ask the candidate to double-check them and give you a heads up, because if you submit the recommendation letter wrong, the candidate might lose their chance.
• Use a business tone . Even when you’re being creative, your writing tone should maintain a business tone - polite, and as formal as possible.
• Mind your grammar and spelling . This is another tip that goes for all things application-related. You won’t compromise the referee’s chances with a typo, but your recommendation won’t matter much either if it’s filled with simple grammar/spelling mistakes. Run your letter through a grammar and spell-check app once you’re finished with it, just to be on the safe side of things.

Recommendation Letter FAQ

Still have some questions on how to write a letter of recommendation?

Find your answers below!

1. What is a professional letter of recommendation?

A professional letter of recommendation - also called an employment recommendation letter - refers to an official document that is typically required when you apply for a job and which describes the applicant’s professional skills, experiences, and qualifications. 

Professional letters of recommendation are typically written by current or previous employers or supervisors. A coworker can also write you a professional letter of recommendation, but it’s not as optimal as a coworker is not really an authority figure (and might just be a friend doing you a favor instead of being honest).

2. What should be written in a letter of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation generally follow the following format: 

• A formal salutation
• An introduction (which includes a recommendation statement and your professional title)
• An overview of some of the applicant’s skills, strengths, or qualifications, which you can tailor to the application
• A personal story where you can mention some of the applicant’s achievements
• A closing statement and call for action
• A signature , with your contact information

3. Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation?

If you’re asking for an academic letter of recommendation, you can ask:

• Current or former professors
• Academic mentors
• Thesis advisors

If you’re asking for a professional recommendation letter, though, you can ask:

• Current or former employers
• A supervisor or professional mentor
• Former professors
• Experienced coworkers

4. How do you start a recommendation paragraph?

To keep the recruiter reading your recommendation letter interested, you should start with an attention-grabbing introduction - specifically, an interesting recommendation statement. 

This statement is the opening sentence of the letter and it should optimally express your conviction to recommend the applicant in a non-generic way. 

If you’re struggling with coming up with something creative, just start with one of the following:

• A little-known or impressive fact about the candidate
• Your general consideration of the candidate’s qualities
• A remarkable achievement, or an award the candidate might have won

5. How do you end a letter of recommendation?

A letter of recommendation concludes with a call to action or a request towards the recruiter   showing your availability and willingness to provide additional information if needed. After mentioning that you remain available to discuss the candidate’s qualifications, you may finalize the letter with your signature - your name, title, and company.

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! We hope this article will make the process of writing a recommendation letter easier for you. 

Let’s go over some of the main points we covered: 

• A letter of recommendation is a formal letter confirming and recommending a person’s work, skills, or academic performance and potential.
• Recommendation letters follow a particular format and layout. The format typically consists of 1) the letterhead and full contact information, 2) a salutation, 3) an introduction, 4) an overview, 5) a personal story, 6) a closing sentence and 7) your signature.
• The three types of recommendation letters are employment, academic, and character recommendation letters.
• Who to ask for a recommendation letter depends on the type of reference you need. As a rule of thumb, pick someone who knows your skills and strengths well and whom you’ve had a positive experience (professional or academic) with.

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• How to Write a Letter of...

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

11 min read · Updated on August 25, 2022

Writing a letter of recommendation is an honor, but also a big responsibility. Take the guesswork out of creating something that can make or break a colleague or student's candidacy.

As a trusted colleague, boss, or friend, you may be asked to write a letter of recommendation. That says a lot about the esteem in which others hold you and you should take it as an honor. Because you want to do a good job to ensure the person you are writing about has the best shot at the position they want, you need to understand how to write a letter of recommendation.

But what exactly is a letter of recommendation and how should you go about writing one? There's no mystery. Once you understand what goes into a great recommendation letter and how you can compile one, you'll be equipped to help that star student or employee make their next life move.

In this blog we will detail the steps to take and the following:

What is a letter of recommendation?

Recommendation letter examples

Types of recommendation letters

Recommendation letter format

Tips for writing a letter of recommendation

Mistakes to avoid

A letter of recommendation is a formal introduction and reference for a person seeking a new job or academic role. Letters of recommendation are typically written by a former employer, professor, client, or colleague whose attestation to your skills and qualities will impress the reader.

If you are asked to write a letter of recommendation, you can be sure that the requester believes you will have good things to say about their professional qualities and why you believe they are an excellent candidate for this new role.

A great recommendation letter, like a great resume or cover letter, entices the reader to want to learn more about the candidate and to offer them an interview to discuss the opportunity further.

Not everyone who requests a recommendation letter is asking because they have entered the job market. An employee may be returning to school to get an advanced degree, or applying for a certification program or fellowship.

Each different purpose requires a slightly different letter-writing approach. There are two main types of letters of recommendation you as a supervisor, client, manager, teacher or other superior may be asked to write:

Academic 

Academic letter of recommendation

Colleges, universities, and other post-graduate programs often seek letters of recommendation as part of the application process. These letters may also play a role in whether a candidate receives a scholarship or other financial assistance.

Academic letters of recommendation should focus on who the applicant is as a person and what insight and dedication they will bring to the academic department or program. Your job as an academic letter of recommendation writer is to offer an unbiased perspective on the applicant's personality, but also on their ability to grasp new concepts and any other skills and attributes that will make them an excellent student.

Employment letter of recommendation

Typically written by supervisors, managers, or clients, employment recommendation letters are focused on the attributes that will make the letter's subject an excellent employee. If you are asked by a person you supervise to write a letter of recommendation and it is not against company policy, make sure you honestly believe the person is a quality candidate. Your name will be on the letter, too.Teachers, academic advisors, and university professors may also be asked to write employment recommendations, especially if their students are searching for their first job or first job in a new field.

Exercise caution

Be aware that many employers will not allow you to write a recommendation letter for a colleague. They will, instead, suggest that you refer the person to the Human Resources Department, which will merely confirm a person's tenure with the company.

Before you begin to write, it will help to understand what goes into a reference letter. Any letter of recommendation should follow a standard format. Here are the components you need to include:

Introduction

Closing statement and signature

You may also consider including a personal anecdote if you feel comfortable doing so and it illustrates a positive quality about the letter's subject.

You may be asking yourself, “How do I write a letter of recommendation?” Take it one section at a time. Below, we offer detailed information on what each section should contain and recommendation letter example text for each.

Since this is a formal letter, your greeting should also be formal, unless the person for whom you are writing the letter asks you to keep it casual. You can't go wrong with Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last name] since you are relying on the information given to you by the letter's subject. 

If you do not know who the recipient of the letter is, kindly suggest that a letter with a personalized greeting goes a lot farther than one with a generic greeting. Above all, avoid the stilted “To Whom It May Concern” if at all possible.

The beginning of a recommendation letter serves an important purpose: It tells the reader who you are writing about and why. Although it may seem less than creative, one of the best ways to start is simply by adapting the following letter of recommendation examples intro: 

“I am pleased to recommend Sarah Peterman for the financial analyst manager position at Holdfield Century Inc. I have supervised Sarah for four years at Rosano Industries and feel she would be outstanding in this role.”

This format works for a candidate applying for a university program by simply changing the job and prospective employer's name to the academic program and university's name. 

The overview comprises the bulk of your letter of reference; it is the middle two or three body paragraphs. This may be the most difficult section to write because it is here that you explain why you believe the candidate is worthy. To help guide you, try answering the following questions:

What words best describe the candidate's work style?

What qualities help them excel and make them right for the new role?

What project or achievement stands out from their tenure?

What story or personal anecdote can you tell that will illustrate the best of the candidate?

Peg each piece of the information you share with a skill or attribute necessary for the new role. Make sure you connect the dots and explain exactly how each quality builds a case for the candidate.

Here is a recommendation letter example for the overview:

“I remember when Sarah began working in my department. She was eager to learn and, in fact, quickly developed an understanding of business modeling and our proprietary accounting system. Sarah is not afraid to ask clarifying questions and is always ready to lend a hand to get the job done. 

“In the course of our four years of working together, Sarah has taken every opportunity to stretch and grow as a financial analyst. In fact, I believe she is ready to move into the role of financial analyst.

“Just last week, I entrusted Sarah with completing and presenting our five-year business forecast at the company's quarterly meeting. I offered her this opportunity because I knew not only that she would do a fabulous job, but also that she was outgrowing her role as my subordinate. She did not disappoint. Her presentation was flawless and her analysis spot-on.”

Closing statement

You've written a recommendation letter that makes a great case for the candidate. Now you need a few sentences that remind the reader that you believe they are ready for their next move and you believe they have chosen wisely.

Here is a letter of recommendation example for a closing statement:

“After having managed Sarah for four years, I can attest to her dedication, determination and knowledge of business processes and strategies. Holdfield Century Inc. would be lucky to have Sarah in the position of finance manager.”

Finally, sign off with Sincerely or Regards, your full name, your title, and the company for which you work.

“Sincerely,

Anna Chavez

Financial analyst manager

Rosana Industries”

Tips for writing a good letter of recommendation

When writing a letter of recommendation, there are some hints to keep in mind that will make the process easier and more fruitful for the candidate. After all, you wouldn't have agreed to write the rec letter unless you believed in the candidate and wanted to help them.

Here are some tips for writing a great letter of recommendation.

Make sure you don't waste a word. You have only a few paragraphs to convince a hiring manager or admissions officer that the person you have chosen to endorse is an excellent candidate. Unless it's relevant, don't take space mentioning that they love soccer or knitted you a beautiful sweater for your birthday.

If you link each sentence to a quality necessary for the position, you won't have any trouble with this.

Use descriptive words to make a strong case. If possible, ask the candidate for the job listing or requirements for the academic program. Incorporate necessary attributes into your sentences. If creativity falls high on the list of requirements and you can honestly say it's true, write a phrase such as “creative thinker” or “able to develop creative solutions to thorny business problems.”

Get specific. The best letters of recommendation offer pointed examples, not platitudes. They offer data, details, and reasons for your high praise. “Kenton is a great employee” pales in comparison to “Kenton has never missed a deadline and often turns in his high-quality work early.” If you're in a data-driven industry, cement the case with relevant figures.

Check the facts with the letter's subject. It's not your career you're writing about. Do a little research to make sure you don't miss a key fact or accomplishment. Don't be shy about double-checking the details or even asking the candidate to refresh your memory.

Now that you know what you should do, here are a few things you should not . 

Don't say yes to writing the letter if you can't make an honest recommendation. A tepid letter of recommendation may be worse than none at all. Perhaps your underling has learned from the mistakes she made during her tenure as your employee and just needs a fresh start. That doesn't mean you have to write a recommendation letter. It's OK to say no.

Damning with faint praise. This is definitely a case where a less than ringing endorsement will have the recipient reading between the lines. That old saw, “if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all” applies here. Certainly do not write an anti-recommendation letter. Instead, let the candidate's resume, cover letter, and interview stand on their own.

The flipside: Hyperbole. While you don't want to get negative, you also don't want to go over the top with your language. The statement, “Kayla's art is among the best in the world” may have the reader thinking, “Really? Compared to Frida Kahlo, Picasso, and Rembrandt?” Keep it real. “Kayla's graphic designs have helped our customers increase traffic to their websites by 20%” is much more realistic and offers a better idea of what Kayla can do.

To be asked to write a letter of reference is an honor. It says that the person trusts you and believes you know their best qualities.

Follow the structure above, using a professional tone. Make it clear that you highly recommend the candidate for that position.

Choose a personal, but professionally related, anecdote to illustrate the candidate's outstanding qualifications for the job or academic program.

It is better to say no than to write a letter of recommendation that doesn't praise the candidate.

Make sure you have all the details right by doing some research and double-checking your facts

Find more resume-writing advice in our related articles below or upload your resume for a free review from our resume experts! Recommended reading

How to Keep a Bad Reference from Ruining Your Career

The 5 Best Questions to Ask in An Interview

Our TopResume Career Expert Answers Your Burning Job-Search Questions

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Short Cover Letter Samples: Effective Examples for Job Applications

How To Write a Sick Leave Letter for Work (with Template and Example)

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

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How to write or request a letter of recommendation

1. Applying for college, grad school or a scholarship

2. certain professions encourage recommendation letters, 3. lack of experience or changing careers, introduction and statement of recommendation, overview and reasons for recommendation, personal story with specific and tailored evidence, recommendation letter closing statement , 1. the recommendation letter comes from a credible source., 2. it is specific and tailored towards the role in question., 3. the message is unapologetically positive., 4. it tells a story with a thoughtful level of detail., 5. the recommendation letter suggests that a hire would be appropriate..

There are certain situations when a letter of recommendation might be required, and it is certainly not a standard part of every job application. However, when one is requested, or if circumstances demand that it would add value, there are a number of considerations in terms of how to write – or how to request – recommendation letters.

A job application is about establishing your credibility, so borrowing the credibility from a senior member of your previous employer is a good way of providing an objective assessment. Letters of recommendation may not always be read, especially if you are a borderline candidate, but if you have gone through a couple of rounds of interviews and are up against a tough competitor, you never know what might be helpful to have in your candidate file.

Writing or requesting a letter of recommendation is more complicated than you might think. This blog will explore the following:

• What is a letter of recommendation?
• Who needs a recommendation letter?
• How to ask for letters of recommendation
• The format of a letter of recommendation
• 5 characteristics of a winning letter of recommendation
• Tips for writing a recommendation letter

A letter of recommendation could make all the difference to an otherwise shaky application. When extra context / background is required, the credibility that it provides could be the deciding factor in that interview invite or job offer.

What is a letter of recommendation? 

A letter of recommendation is an influential tool in many job searches. There is always an inherent bias when a candidate is describing their accomplishments, but when the perspective comes from a colleague or previous boss, there is a whole new level of credibility. Sharing letters of recommendation introduces essential elements of social proof to the interview process .

Build your case using every tool at your disposal. A candidate who makes the effort to put forward a strong argument is someone who clearly wants the role. That is an important consideration for any employer.

A letter of recommendation validates a candidate’s work, skills or educational achievements. It corroborates the claims that they have made in their resume and during their interviews, reinforcing their trustworthiness and amplifying their other messages. If you offer proof of one achievement, the others seem more believable.

An ideal letter of recommendation will come from someone who has worked closely with a candidate, who knows what they can contribute and can explain with real examples and considered feedback why they would be a great fit for the role in question. Depending on circumstances, this may be a colleague, boss, teacher or close acquaintance.

The credibility of the referee is a crucial aspect of a powerful letter of recommendation – the person needs to have a sufficiently close relationship with the candidate. They should also be sufficiently senior to impress a hiring manager, but not too senior that they don't know the candidate well. Balance is important here.

Consider the source, and avoid asking for a recommendation letter from anyone who stands to gain by your hire, such as a supplier or provider who may want to win business from the company.

Who needs a letter of recommendation?

The majority of hiring managers will not welcome letters of recommendation unless they have been specifically requested. The resume and cover letter should do the job search heavy lifting, but there are certain circumstances when a letter of recommendation could be supplied – even in the absence of a specific request.

Colleges, universities and grad programs sometimes ask for letters of recommendation. This is partly because students may not have so much work experience, but it also highlights the power of a letter of recommendation as a tool to understand future potential. Admissions officers need a companion to a student’s personal essay. Be careful not to write the letter of recommendation yourself as your personal style will give you away. Many referees are time-poor and may ask you to do this, but find someone who is willing to write it themselves. If the letter "sounds" like you, it will arouse suspicion.

When you don’t have much experience in the field you’re applying to, writing a cover letter can feel like a daunting task. While you might be tempted to submit your application without one, that would be a big mistake.

Certain professions, such as medicine or education , have traditionally included letters of recommendation as part of their application process. When a role entails interactions with other people that have the potential to be life-changing, this external check allows for informed hiring decisions. Make sure that you check what the letter of recommendation should contain - ask previous applicants or look for advice online. If you are applying to a prestigious company, there should be plenty of advice about what they are looking for.

If a job candidate lacks experience or is seeking to change careers , a comparatively weak application can benefit from a letter of recommendation that will support a pitch for that new job. A character reference from a previous colleague or friend can make all the difference. If there is a contact in a desired field who can testify to suitability, then all the better. An impossible leap suddenly becomes a little more attainable. In some circumstances, a letter of recommendation can complement a cover letter to give some more context as to why you want the role and why you would be a perfect fit. 

When writing or requesting a letter of recommendation, make sure it's tailored to the situation. No job or candidate is the same, so there will always be a unique fit of talent and opportunity. Avoid letters of recommendation that could have been written for any job.

When you are looking for a new job or client, the first step is to send a letter to introduce yourself.

How to ask for recommendation letters

Recommendation letters usually come from close acquaintances who are happy to help. This does not mean, however, that the request should not be polite and thoughtful. There are certain guidelines an applicant should consider when asking for recommendation letters. If the ground has been carefully prepared, the outcome will be that much better.

• Try to ask during a conversation rather than an email or message.
• Include the job description and explain your unique situation.
• Share your resume to show how you present yourself.
• Make suggestions about the sorts of things to include (or perhaps leave out).
• Consider including a template that can guide and shape the letter.
• Allow plenty of time for the letter to be written and include a realistic deadline.

Above all, it's important to express gratitude when asking for letters of recommendation. Anyone who writes one for you is doing you a big favor, and you shouldn't take it for granted. If they have worked with you previously (hopefully the case), they may see your journey as part of their journey, so the letter of recommendation may be a pleasure to write for them as they realise what part they have played in your success.

Ask for a recommendation on LinkedIn The world of LinkedIn recommendation is filled with murky reciprocation and algorithm-gaming tactics. Many people get recommendations from connections with whom they have never spoken and who are from entirely different industries. Ask for recommendations only from those you know personally, and make sure the recommendation is truthful and specific to the job seeker's skill set.

Letter of recommendation format

Writing a great letter of recommendation requires attention to formatting as well as word choice. Below we offer recommendation letter examples that include the following sections:

• Overview and reasons for recommendation letter
• Recommendation letter closing statement

It is important for writers of recommendation letters to establish both their relationship with the applicant and their own area of expertise to give the recommendation credibility.

A statement of recommendation should be overwhelmingly positive and unequivocal in its support of the candidate. Set an enthusiastic tone of positivity. The contents of the letter may be used as a basis for questions during a later interview , so the more enthusiastic, the better.

It’s my pleasure to recommend Helen Hagot for a position as a graphic designer at the Tribune . I’ve known Helen for five years and worked with her closely in my capacity as art director of the Post . I’ve always found Helen to be a creative and dynamic colleague, prone to finding divine design solutions for every project.

A great letter of recommendation gets straight to the point in terms of the personal qualities and accomplishments that make the applicant really good at this job.

Include the types of professional and academic accomplishments that will add to the candidate’s job search argument. And make it clear that the writer has witnessed these qualities first-hand.

Helen is especially talented at photo illustration, though she has astonishing skills in drawing and painting as well. She was always my go-to for creating cover art when needed, and given her collaborative nature and cheery disposition, everyone loved to work with her.

Telling a story that mentions the specific strengths of the candidate and relates to how they will perform in their future role is the perfect way of influencing a future hiring manager. Offer context and evidence to back up any opinions.

The Post was proud to take home five Society of News Design awards last year, and I couldn’t help noting that Helen’s name was on three of them. Helen is not just good – she makes everyone around her better. 

Close on a positive note. If you’re game, let the hiring manager know that you would be happy to provide more information over the phone or by email.

Any publication in the country would be lucky to have Helen. Please feel free to call or write if you’d like to talk more.

5 characteristics of winning recommendation letters

When there is an extra element added to job search documentation, it is important that it adds to a candidate’s case rather than detracts from it. If the following five characteristics are present in recommendation letters, there is every chance that there will be a positive outcome.

It matters a great deal who is writing the recommendation letter. They need to have experience in the target industry and be of sufficient seniority that their opinion will be respected by the hiring manager. Ideally, they will have worked closely with the applicant.

When a hiring manager is looking for specific answers in terms of a candidate’s suitability, there is nothing worse than a cookie cutter recommendation letter that seems to have been written for a broad range of possible jobs. Ideally, the letter should mention the name of the target company and speak to the role the candidate is seeking.

The clue is in the name. The letter is intended to recommend the person. There is no requirement to write a balanced assessment of suitability, so the recommendation letter should have an unmistakably positive tone. 

The more detail the writer can add to the story, the deeper the reader will internalize the message. It is better to share one detailed story than to provide a superficial list of reasons to hire someone.

It’s not a recommendation writer’s job to tell employers what to do. But the message should be clear that this is a great candidate who would make a good hire. 

Key takeaways

Letters of recommendation are most common when people are changing careers or at the start of their careers. You shouldn't seek to inundate a potential boss before they have expressed an interest in you, so consider whether you wait until you have a confirmed interview before sending it over. Judgment is key, but if you have a stellar letter to share, then there is not really anything to lose by enclosing it.

• In certain situations, such as for students applying to college , a letter of recommendation may be an essential tool to make an impact.
• Avoid sending a letter of recommendation unless a potential employer has specifically requested one.
• When writing a letter of recommendation, make it specific and try to tell a story about the candidate.
• Follow the trusted format and make sure to include details of your personal connection with the applicant.

How to write a letter of recommendation

You’ve summarised all your  skills and achievements in a well-written resumé, but if you want to add credibility to your job applications, nothing beats a letter of recommendation. It can be the deciding factor that sets you apart from other applicants, coming from a trustworthy source who can vouch for your abilities and character traits. 

A letter of recommendation can highlight your strengths, provide examples of your accomplishments, and help a hiring manager see your potential. Knowing how to request and write a professional letter of recommendation is important if you want a letter that hits all the right notes. 

What is a letter of recommendation?

Why are recommendation letters important?

Letter of recommendation templates

Letter of recommendation examples

How to request a recommendation letter?

What is a letter of recommendation?    

A letter of recommendation, also known as a  reference letter , is a formal document written by someone who has knowledge of your skills, character and achievements. This person is usually a current or former employer, professor, or  mentor who can vouch for your abilities. They can be used in a number of circumstances:

Applying for a job:  recommendation letters strengthen your application by providing a credible endorsement of your skills and work ethic. Employers often use these letters to gain insight into how you have performed in previous roles and how you might fit into their organisation.

Applying for a promotion:  recommendation letters are also essential when  looking for a promotion within your current company. A strong recommendation from a supervisor or colleague can help demonstrate your contributions to the team and highlight your readiness to step up. 

Applying for a scholarship or internship: these letters are also important when applying for academic programs, scholarships or internships, as they provide evidence of your academic achievements and potential for future success.

Types of recommendation letters  

There are different types of recommendation letters for different situations. Here are some different types to keep in mind. 

Professional recommendations

A professional recommendation letter is written by someone who has worked with you in a professional setting, such as a current or former employer, supervisor or colleague. These letters are typically used when applying for jobs or promotions. The letter will focus on your job performance, specific skills, accomplishments, and contributions to the team or organisation. 

Academic recommendations 

An academic recommendation letter is written by someone who has seen your performance in an educational setting, such as a professor. These letters are often required for applications to academic programs, scholarships, or research opportunities. They will highlight your academic achievements, dedication to studies, and potential for future success. 

Character recommendations 

A character recommendation letter, also known as a  personal reference , is written by someone who knows you personally and can vouch for your character and personal qualities. This kind of letter can be used when applying for volunteer positions or community service roles. They focus on personal attributes such as honesty, trustworthiness and reliability. 

Why are recommendation letters important?    

A single vacant position might have several applicants who all meet the basic qualifications for a role, so a solid recommendation letter can help you stand out. It adds a personal touch and a deeper level of insight into who you are as a professional. A reference can also highlight specific instances where you demonstrated skills that your resumé can’t. 

When a respected professional vouches for your abilities and achievements, it adds weight to your application. Knowing that someone else, especially someone with a reputable background, believes in your potential can be what gets you over the line in the hiring process.

Writing a reference letter    

If you’re asking your manager or supervisor to write a letter of recommendation for an employee (i.e. you), here are some elements to ask them to include.

A strong recommendation letter highlights specific qualities   

A strong recommendation letter should provide concrete examples of your skills and achievements in action. It should include specific soft skills and hard skills with examples.

For example, rather than saying you “ improved sales ,” it’s far more impactful to say you “ increased sales by 15% over six months by implementing a new merchandising strategy ”. 

Use positive language   

The language used in a recommendation letter is also very important. Try to get the person writing your letter to steer clear of any ambiguous language, sticking to strong  ‘action’ verbs and adjectives. 

Phrases like ‘ highly motivated ’ ‘ exceptional leadership ’, and ‘ exceeded expectations ’ give plenty of confidence in your abilities. 

Tailor to the position  

Your recommendation letter should be tailored to the specific job that you’re applying for. For example, if the job calls for strong  project management skills , the recommender should highlight relevant achievements in that area.

For example, the following sentence “ Jan has been a valuable member of our team and has always performed her duties well ,” doesn’t clearly address your skills. Instead try, “ Jan has consistently demonstrated exceptional project management skills, successfully leading our team through dozens of high-budget projects in the last 18 months. ”

Credibility and endorsement   

A strong recommendation letter validates your qualifications from a trusted source. For example, a recommendation from a senior executive can carry significant weight in your job application. An endorsement like this shows you are trusted and valued by respected professionals. 

Quantify impact   

Instead of simply listing duties and responsibilities, ask the recommender to provide examples of the quantifiable impact you’ve made in their previous roles. 

For example, instead of saying, “ Jon was responsible for overseeing branding campaigns ”. It’s more impactful to say,  “Jon led the branding campaigns to achieve a 10% increase in brand lift in our target audience within one year” .

A well-structured template can make the process of writing a recommendation letter much easier. Below are two templates you can adapt to suit your needs, whether for professional, academic or character recommendations. Below is a sample recommendation letter for a professional and academic recommendation. 

Professional letter of recommendation example

[Referee name] [Referee title] [Company name] [Company address] [City, state, postcode] [Email address] [Phone number]

[Recipient name] [Recipient title] [Company/Organisation name] [Company address] [City, state, postcode]

Dear [recipient name],

I am writing to highly recommend [applicant] for the [position or program] at your organisation. I have had the pleasure of working with [applicant] at [company name] for [duration], during which time they served as [applicant job title].

During their time at [company name], [applicant] demonstrated exceptional [specific skills or qualities] role. For example, [provide a specific instance or project where applicant excelled, including quantifiable metrics, if possible, such as “increased sales by 15%” or “led a team to complete a major project three weeks ahead of schedule”].

[Applicant] is highly [positive qualities, such as motivated, dedicated, a team player], and has shown remarkable [specific attributes, such as leadership, problem solving, communication skills]. 

I wholeheartedly endorse [applicant] for this opportunity and believe they would be an invaluable asset to your team. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

[Referee name] [Title] [Company name]

Academic recommendation letter template

[Referee name] ⁠[Referee title] ⁠[Institution name] ⁠[Institution address] ⁠[City, state, postcode] ⁠[Email address] ⁠[Phone number]

I am writing to provide a strong recommendation for [student], who has been an exemplary student in my [course or subject] class at [institution name]. I have known [student] for [duration] and have observed their strong academic performance and dedication to their studies.

[Student] has consistently demonstrated outstanding [specific academic skills or qualities, such as analytical thinking, research capabilities, or creativity]. For instance, in their [specific project or coursework], they [provide specific examples, such as “developed a comprehensive research paper”].

Beyond their academic achievements, [student] is [positive qualities, such as hardworking, enthusiastic, a collaborative team member], and actively participates in [extracurricular activities, student organisations, or community service]. 

I am confident that [student] will excel in [specific program, course, or position they are applying for]. I highly recommend [student's name] and am available to provide any additional information you may require.

[Referee name] [Referee title] [Institution name]  

How to request a recommendation letter?   

Requesting a recommendation letter is an important step in your application process. How you go about asking can make all the difference to the response you receive.

Identify the right person  

Choose people who can genuinely vouch for your skills and experiences relevant to the specific job you’re applying for. These should be people who have directly seen your work and can provide detailed, meaningful insights into your abilities. People who know you well and are familiar with your work are more likely to write compelling, personalised recommendations.

It’s better to have one strong recommendation from a credible source than several generic ones. A well-written, detailed letter from a respected professional will have far more impact than lots of vague endorsements.

Time your request 

Give your recommender plenty of time to write a thoughtful letter. Ideally, ask for a recommendation at least two weeks before the deadline to ensure they have enough time to prepare. A considerate approach will increase the likelihood of receiving a positive response.

How to write an email request for a recommendation letter   

When requesting a recommendation letter, it’s important to send a professional email that clearly outlines your needs and provides all necessary information. Here are the things to include:

The position you are applying for:  clearly state the job title and company name.

Deadline for the recommendation: provide the due date to ensure timely submission.

Context reminder:  briefly remind the recommender of your work together and any relevant experiences.

Gratitude:  express your appreciation for their time and consideration.

Supporting document: offer a one-page document highlighting your relevant skills, accomplishments and contributions to make their job easier.

Subject: Request for a Recommendation Letter

Dear Carlo, I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to request your support in writing a recommendation letter for me as I apply for the data analyst position at Tech Innovators Company.

Our work together at Innovate Solutions was incredibly valuable, and I believe your insights into my analytical and  time-management skills would greatly strengthen my application. The deadline for the recommendation is June 15 2024, and I would be grateful if you could provide the letter by then.

I have attached a brief document highlighting my relevant skills and accomplishments to assist you in crafting the letter. Thank you very much for considering my request. Your support means a lot to me.

Best regards,

James Harvey

Subject: Request for a Letter of Recommendation

Dear Tanya,

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me as I apply for the assistant store manager position at Retail World. Given our work together at Trend Store, I believe your perspective on my  leadership skills and customer service expertise would be incredibly valuable.

The application deadline is July 7 2024, so I would appreciate it if you could complete the letter by that time. I have included a one-page summary of my relevant experiences and accomplishments to provide you with additional context.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration. Your recommendation would greatly support my application, and I am very grateful for your help.

Warm regards,

Emily Turner    

Having strong recommendation letters will aid credibility to your job applications. Remember to identify the ideal people to write your letters, time your requests appropriately, and provide clear, supportive information to your recommenders. Taking these steps can help you receive compelling endorsements that set you apart from other applicants. Reach out to your network and ask for the right recommendations that will help you get the job you're aiming for.  

Who should I ask for a recommendation letter? 

Ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your relevant skills and experiences, such as a current or former employer, supervisor, professor or mentor. Choosing someone who can provide specific examples of your achievements will make your recommendation letter more impactful.

What do you write in a letter of recommendation? 

A letter of recommendation should include:

An introduction outlining the relationship between the recommender and the applicant 

Specific examples of skills and achievements 

Positive language to highlight strengths 

A conclusion endorsing the applicant for the position

What is the main purpose of a letter of recommendation? 

The main purpose of a letter of recommendation is to provide a credible account of an applicant’s qualifications, skills and character from someone who has firsthand knowledge of their work. It validates the applicant’s capabilities and helps set them apart from other applicants.

What is the best opening sentence of a letter of recommendation? 

The best opening sentence should clearly state the purpose of the letter and the relationship between the recommender and the applicant, such as: “ I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for [applicant’s name], who has worked under my supervision at [company/institution] for [duration]. ”

What not to say in a letter of recommendation? 

You should avoid vague statements, critical comments, and any negative or irrelevant information in a letter of recommendation. Do not  exaggerate or lie about the applicant’s abilities, and steer clear of personal information that is not related to their professional qualifications.

How far in advance should I request a recommendation letter? 

You should request a recommendation letter ideally four to six weeks in advance. This gives the recommender plenty of time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter without feeling rushed.

What if my potential recommender doesn't remember me well? 

If your potential recommender doesn’t remember you well, remind them of specific projects you worked on together, your achievements and any relevant details. Consider giving them a summary of your experiences and accomplishments to jog their memory and make it easier for them to write the letter.

Can I use the same recommendation letter for multiple job applications? 

Yes, you can use the same recommendation letter for multiple job applications, but it’s best to tailor it to each specific position. A generic letter is less impactful than one that highlights skills and experiences relevant to the job you are applying for.

Is it okay to ask a colleague for a recommendation letter? 

Yes, it is okay to ask a colleague for a recommendation letter, especially if they have directly observed your work and can provide specific examples of your skills and accomplishments. 

What should I do if my recommender says no to writing a letter for me? 

If your recommender says no, thank them for their consideration and move on to another potential recommender. It’s important to respect their decision and find someone who feels confident in providing a strong and positive letter. 

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