What is a Letter of Recommendation? Tips for Graduate School Applicants

A letter of recommendation is a document written by a professional or academic reference that assesses your character, abilities, and potential. This document is often required for graduate school applications and can be a crucial component of your overall application.

Why are Letters of Recommendation Important?

Graduate school admissions committees use letters of recommendation to gain insight into an applicant’s academic abilities, work ethic, and potential for success in their program. These letters provide a unique perspective on your qualifications and can help differentiate you from other applicants. They also serve as an opportunity for someone who knows you well to advocate on your behalf and highlight your strengths and achievements.

Who Should You Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?

When choosing who to ask for a letter of recommendation, consider the following:

• Ask someone who knows you well: This could be a professor, employer, or mentor who has worked closely with you and can speak to your abilities and potential.
• Consider the requirements: Some graduate programs may require specific types of references, such as academic references from professors in your field.
• Think about your goals: Consider what you hope to achieve through graduate school and who could provide a reference that speaks to those goals.

Tips for Requesting a Letter of Recommendation

When requesting a letter of recommendation, follow these tips:

• Ask in advance: Give your references enough time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter.
• Provide information: Provide your references with a copy of your resume, personal statement, and any relevant application materials.
• Be polite: Remember that your references are doing you a favor, so be polite and respectful in your request.
• Follow up: If your reference has not submitted the letter by the deadline, politely follow up to ensure that they have received the request and have enough time to complete it.

Tips for Submitting a Letter of Recommendation

When submitting a letter of recommendation, follow these tips:

• Follow the instructions: Make sure to follow the specific instructions provided by the graduate program regarding how to submit the letter.
• Show gratitude: Send a thank-you note or email to your reference to express your gratitude for their support.
• Check in: After submitting the application, follow up with the graduate program to ensure that all of your application materials, including the letters of recommendation, have been received.

Conclusion

A letter of recommendation is an important part of the graduate school application process. By choosing the right references, requesting the letter in advance, and following the specific instructions provided by the graduate program, you can ensure that your letter of recommendation is a strong component of your overall application. Remember to express your gratitude and follow up with the program after submission to ensure that all of your materials have been received.