A strong letter of recommendation can make a real difference in your college application. But many students don’t know how or when to ask or how to help their recommenders write a great letter. This article shows you how to request a recommendation the right way and build strong support for your application.
1. Why Recommendations Matter
Colleges use recommendation letters to understand what you’re like beyond your grades. They offer an outside perspective on your character, work ethic, and potential.
2. Who You Should Ask
Choose people who know you well and can speak to your growth. Teachers, counselors, or mentors who’ve worked with you recently are often best. Avoid picking someone just because of their title.
What Colleges Are Looking For (and How to Show It)
3. When to Ask
Ask at least one month before the deadline, earlier is better. Teachers and counselors are busy, especially during application season, so give them plenty of time to write a thoughtful letter.
4. How to Make the Ask
Asking in person is always best, then follow up with an email so they have all the information. The email should be polite and professional. Be clear about what you need and why you’re asking them specifically. Here is an example template.
Subject: Request for a Letter of Recommendation
Dear [Professor/Dr./Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I am reaching out to ask if you would be willing to write me a letter of recommendation for [purpose: e.g., a college application, internship, scholarship, or job opportunity].
I greatly valued [specific experience you shared, such as their class, a project you worked on, or mentorship they provided], and I believe you could provide meaningful insight into my strengths in [relevant skill/quality, e.g., problem-solving, leadership, writing ability].
The recommendation is due by [date], and I would be glad to share my resume, transcript, or any other information that would make the process easier. Please let me know if this is something you’d be comfortable doing. I completely understand if the timing doesn’t work out.
Thank you for considering my request, and for all of your support and guidance.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Info, if appropriate]
5. Give Helpful Materials
Make it easier for your recommender by providing a ‘brag sheet’ or a summary of your activities, interests, and goals. You can also include deadlines, instructions, and any key points you’d like them to highlight. This is where your high school resume is very helpful. See How to Start High School Resume.
6. Say Thank You and Follow Up
Always thank your recommender, both when they agree to write the letter and after it’s submitted. Send a follow-up reminder a week before the deadline. Appreciation goes a long way.
7. Final Thought
A strong recommendation letter starts with a respectful, thoughtful request. Be clear, be early, and support your recommender with the details they need. A great letter can make a powerful difference in your application.
Sources
Guidance for this article was drawn from:
- The Common App’s official recommendation guidelines and resources
- Advice published by admissions officers from institutions like MIT, Stanford, and Dartmouth on their admissions blogs
- Best practices recommended by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)
- Resources and articles from high school college counselors published by the College Board and professional counseling organizations