Letters of Recommendation and References for Graduate/Professional School and Applications

Grades are an important part of any application, but equally as important is what you are like. Letters of recommendation and references get at your character, professional behavior, interests, abilities, and maturity.

What is a Letter of Recommendation?

A common component of graduate and professional school applications, letters of recommendation provide contextual information about you as a person and academic that your transcript and application might not otherwise illustrate. Most schools require 2-4 reference letters.

What is the Credential File Service?

Your interests after graduation can change and evolve. Maybe you'll apply to graduate or professional school after working for a couple years -- who knows! With tim, however, it gets more difficult to write meaningful letters of recommendation as memories naturally fade. Account for this by asking for letters of recommendation now -- we'll keep them on file until you need them, for up to 10 years! Learn more about the Credential File Service.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation:

1. Identify individuals you know well. It is very important that you have a positive relationship with your those who write your letters. Request letters from faculty members who you believe can honestly highlight your strengths with real-world anecdotes meaningful experiences.
2. Ask well in advance of the deadline. A good letter requires time and thought, and your contact is likely very busy. As a general rule, 3-6 weeks is sufficient, but consult with your contact to see how much time they need. Getting in touch six months to a year before your search is not uncommon.
   
3. Ask in person. A statement like "Do you feel you know me well enough to write a letter of recommendation for an application?" gives your faculty contact the ability to accept or decline gracefully. If the answer is "no," do not push.
4. Schedule an appointment with your faculty contact. You can discuss your application and search, the selection criteria, your experiences and activities outside the classroom, and suggest areas that your faculty contact might emphasize. Here are some things to bring to this meeting
   
   • A current resume or CV.
   • Your personal statement.
   • Reminders about the work you have done with this faculty contact. Past papers or exams are particularly helpful.
   • Your transcript. An unofficial transcript from the portal is sufficient, or request a transcript from the registrar.
   • The official description of what you are applying for, and what the letter should address.
   • Coversheets or forms that should accompany the letter. Ensure you have completed any sections that pertain to you like name, address to which letter should be sent, etc.
   • A stamp for your contact to mail the letter.
   • Letter for Recommendation Waiver Form. Most faculty request your right to read their letter prior to submission, so be prepared with this form.
5. Follow up prior to submission deadlines. It is your responsibility to ensure the submission of these materials. Don't harass your contacts, but a friendly reminder is appropriate.
6. Keep in touch throughout your application process. Update your contacts on your applications and changing goals. It is generally good practice to keep your contacts in the loop.
7. Share your success. Make a personal phone call or send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their time and effort.