A complete guide to recommendation letters

When you're applying to college or scholarships, your transcript and essay tell part of your story—but not all of it. That's where letters of recommendation come in. These personal endorsements from people who know you well can show your strengths, passions, and potential from a fresh perspective.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know—from who to ask and how to ask, to what makes a recommendation letter truly stand out.

What is a letter of recommendation?

Think of a letter of recommendation like a trusted friend recommending a great restaurant. Because you trust their opinion, you're more likely to give it a try. Similarly, a strong letter of recommendation from someone who knows you well can help a college admissions officer see why you'd be a great fit.

These letters are usually written by teachers, employers, or mentors. They give colleges a broader picture of who you are beyond your grades and test scores. The letter talks about your achievements, skills, and personal qualities, as well as why you'd succeed at their school.

Why a letter of recommendation matters

Colleges want more than just numbers. Your GPA, test scores, and a list of activities tell part of the story, but a letter of recommendation helps fill in the rest.

It provides schools with insight into your work ethic, leadership, curiosity, and personal qualities through the eyes of someone who's worked closely with you. A strong letter of recommendation can boost your chances of acceptance.

Who you should ask

Choose someone who knows you well, can speak about your abilities or character, and has worked with you recently. This could be a:

• Teacher
• Guidance counselor
• Coach
• Employer or internship advisor
• Mentor

Try to avoid asking family members or people who haven't seen your work up close. Admissions committees look for objective, professional opinions.

How to request a letter of recommendation

Getting a letter of recommendation can make a big difference in your application, but it all starts with how you ask. Here's how to do it right:

Ask early

Don't wait until the last minute. Reach out at least four to six weeks before your deadline. This gives your recommender time to reflect and write something thoughtful, and it shows you're organized.

Ask in person (if possible)

If possible, make the request in person. It's more respectful and gives you a chance to explain why you're asking them specifically. If that's not possible, a polite and professional email is okay, too.

Provide the details

Make it easy for them to help you by sharing the following information:

• What you're applying for (college, scholarship, etc.)
• The deadline
• Where and how to send the letter
• A short list of your accomplishments, goals, or anything you'd like them to mention

These details can help your recommender write a stronger, more personalized letter.

How many letters do you need?

Most colleges ask for one to three letters of recommendation. Some may want one from a teacher, one from a counselor, and one from a mentor or employer. If you're applying through the Common App, you'll be prompted to invite your recommenders directly on the platform.

Make sure to check each school's application requirements. It's smart to ask a few more people than you need, just in case someone can't write the letter or misses the deadline.

Tips for getting great letters

Getting a great letter of recommendation isn't just about who you ask—it's also about how you ask. Follow these dos and don'ts to make sure your recommenders can write their best letters for you.

Dos

• Ask early—at least four to six weeks before the deadline.
• Choose people who know you well and can speak about your strengths.
• Be polite and clear when asking.
• Provide all the details they need to write a strong letter.
• Send a thank you note after they submit your letter.

Don'ts

• Wait until the last minute to ask.
• Ask someone who barely knows you.
• Forget to gently remind them as the deadline gets closer.
• Assume they remember everything about you—be sure to share helpful information.

Template to request a letter of recommendation

Ready to ask your guidance counselor for a letter of recommendation? Here's a sample email you can personalize:

Hi [Name],

I hope you're doing well! I'm applying to [college or scholarship name], and I was wondering if you'd be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. The deadline is [date].

I've attached my resume and a brief list of my accomplishments to help. Please let me know if you need any other information.

Thank you so much for considering this. I really appreciate your support!

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Before you hit send, make sure you've filled in all the details in brackets and attached your materials. A thoughtful, complete request makes it easier for your recommender to say yes and write a strong letter.

What makes a strong letter of recommendation

Strong letters go beyond general praise and do the following:

• Share specific examples of your work or character.
• Show how you've grown or overcome challenges.
• Connect your skills and personality to the program or school you're applying to.
• Highlight qualities that can't be seen in your grades or test scores.

A good recommender will paint a clear picture of who you are and why you'd be a great fit.

After you get your letter

Once your recommender has submitted your letter, there are a few important steps to keep the relationship positive and professional:

• Always send a thank you note—handwritten if possible—to show your appreciation.
• Keep your recommenders updated on your application status and any good news.
• If you get accepted or win a scholarship, share that news with them. They'll be glad to hear it!
• Taking these simple steps can help maintain strong connections and show your gratitude for their support.

Make your application stand out

Letters of recommendation can add a personal touch that helps your application rise above the rest. They give colleges a window into your character, strengths, and potential from someone who knows you well. By carefully selecting your recommenders and providing them with the time and information they need, you're building a stronger, more memorable application.

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